■ Musical COPD patients
from "http://www.hmenews.com"

Friday, December 28, 2007

There are a bunch of people in Phoenix singing the praises of the John C. Lincoln Better Breathers support group and with good reason. For the past few years, the hospital has used “harmonica therapy” to help COPD patients breath better.

Mike Clark, a registered respiratory therapist at the hospital, leads the monthly group meeting. He teaches newcomers how to play the instruments and compliments the smooth, steady, sustained notes.

"Everybody in here has lung disease," Clark explained. "Playing the harmonica strengthens the major muscles used in breathing. Anyone can play the harmonica."

Harmonica therapy has been available at John C. Lincoln for a few years. Before that, patients exercised their lungs by blowing out candles or walking on treadmills.