Introduction: In individuals with COPD, respiratory muscle activations increase to maintain gas exchange and respiratory mechanics and the perception of dyspnea occurs with increased workload. It was aimed to compare respiratory muscle activations in different dyspnea reduction positions and which position can be more effective in reducing dyspnea.

Methods: Sixteen male individuals (60.69±6.92 years) with COPD were included in the study. Pulmonary functions were measured by pulmonary function test and muscle activations by surface electromyography (EMG). Muscle activations were evaluated in the diaphragm, scalene, sternocleidomastoid, and parasternal muscles and were used as the percentage of maximum voluntary contraction. The evaluation was performed in seated erect, sit leaning forward, sit leaning forward at table, forward lean with back against wall, stand leaning forward, supine, high and side lying positions.

Results: There was no significant difference in muscle activations between sit leaning forward and sit leaning forward at table (p>0.05); however, these two positions were lower than the other positions (p<0.05). Muscle activations were higher in supine position compared to other positions (p<0.05). There was no difference between muscle activations in seated erect, forward lean with back against wall, stand leaning forward, high lying and side lying positions (p>0.05).

Conclusions: Sit leaning forward and sit leaning forward at table may be more beneficial than other positions in reducing the perception of dyspnea by reducing respiratory muscle activations in individuals with COPD.