Can simple breathing techniques ease COPD symptoms?

NCT ID NCT07506317

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Riphah International University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested two breathing techniques—Wim Hof method and box breathing—in 60 people with mild COPD. The goal was to see if these exercises could reduce anxiety and breathlessness and improve lung function. Participants practiced one of the two techniques, and researchers measured changes in peak flow, lung volume, anxiety scores, and breathlessness ratings.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: breathing techniques (Wim Hof method and box breathing)
What this could lead to: If effective, these breathing exercises could offer a simple, drug-free way to ease anxiety and breathlessness in people with mild COPD.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed trial with only 60 participants. The results may not apply to all COPD patients, and the techniques may not work for everyone.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD, severe early onset

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

COPD

Contacts and locations

Locations

Bahawal Victoria Hospital BVH Bahawalpur

Chak Four Hundred Fifty-four, Punjab Province, 63100, Pakistan

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