Effects of inspiratory muscle training on dynamic hyperinflation in patients with COPD

Effects of inspiratory muscle training on thoracoabdominal volume regulation in older adults: A randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on inspiratory muscle strength, functional capacity and respiratory muscle kinematics during exercise in healthy older adults.

METHODS

24 adults were randomised into an IMT or SHAM-IMT group. Both groups performed 30 breaths, twice daily, for 8 weeks, at intensities of ∼50 % maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax; IMT) or <15 % PImax (SHAM-IMT). Measurements of PImax, breathing discomfort during a bout of IMT, six-minute walk distance, physical activity levels, and balance were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Respiratory muscle kinematics were assessed via optoelectronic plethysmography (OEP) during constant work rate cycling.

RESULTS

PImax was significantly improved (by 20.0±11.9 cmH2O; p=0.001) in the IMT group only. Breathing discomfort ratings during IMT significantly decreased (from 3.5±0.9-1.7±0.8). Daily sedentary time was decreased (by 28.0±39.8 min; p=0.042), and reactive balance significantly improved (by 1.2±0.8; p<0.001) in the IMT group only. OEP measures showed a significantly greater contribution of the pulmonary and abdominal rib cage compartments to total tidal volume expansion post-IMT.

CONCLUSIONS

IMT significantly improves inspiratory muscle strength and breathing discomfort in this population. IMT induces greater rib cage expansion and diaphragm descent during exercise, thereby suggesting a less restrictive effect on thoracic expansion and increased diaphragmatic power generation.

Can static hyperinflation predict exercise capacity in COPD?

INTRODUCTION

The diagnosis and severity assessment of COPD relies on spirometry, and in particular the FEV1. However, it has been proposed that hyperinflation and air-trapping are better predictors of exercise capacity and mortality than the FEV1.

RESEARCH

QUESTION: Does static hyperinflation predict exercise capacity?

METHODS

We conducted an observational prospective study. Patients with COPD referred to the lung function laboratory were consecutively recruited. Patients with hyperinflation (the experimental group) were compared to patients without hyperinflation (the control group). The sample sizes were determined assuming an effect size of 0.5 and a power of 0.80.

RESULTS

We recruited 124 participants, of whom 87% were male, the mean age was 66.1 ± 8.8 years. 67% were symptomatic (GOLD B or D). Airflow limitation was moderate to severe in the majority of patients (median FEV1 47%, IQR 38-65%) and 43% of patients had static hyperinflation. The median 6MWD was 479 meters (404-510) and peak workload in CPET was 64 watts (46-88) with peak VO2 1.12 L/min, 0.89-1.31 L/min. Patients with lower FEV1, DLCO and IC/TLC and higher RV/TLC had reduced exercise capacity in both 6MWT and CPET, measured as lower distance, greater desaturation and ∆Borg dyspnoea, and reduced workload, peak VO2 and peak VE and higher desaturation and ventilatory limitation (VE/MVV). An IC/TLC < 0.33 predicted reduced exercise performance (peak O2 <60%). Dyspnoea assessed by mMRC and QoL measured by CAT and CCQ were also worse in the hyperinflation in COPD patients.

CONCLUSION

In COPD patients, IC/TLC and RV/TLC are valuable predictors of exercise performance in both 6MWT and CPET and PRO.

The therapeutic role of inspiratory muscle training in the management of asthma: a narrative review

Asthma is a disorder of the airways characterized by chronic airway inflammation, hyperresponsiveness, and variable recurring airway obstruction. Treatment options for asthma include pharmacological strategies, whereas nonpharmacological strategies are limited. Established pharmacological approaches to treating asthma may cause unwanted side effects and do not always afford adequate protection against asthma, possibly because of an individual's variable response to medications. A potential nonpharmacological intervention that is most available and cost effective is inspiratory muscle training (IMT), which is a technique targeted at increasing the strength and endurance of the diaphragm and accessory muscles of inspiration. Studies examining the impact of IMT on asthma have reported increases in inspiratory muscle strength and a reduction in the perception of dyspnea and medication use. However, because of the limited number of studies and discordant methods between studies more evidence is required to elucidate in individuals with asthma the efficacy of IMT on inspiratory muscle endurance, exercise capacity, asthma control, symptoms, and quality of life as well as in adolescents with differing severities of asthma. Large randomized controlled trials would be a significant step forward in clarifying the effectiveness of IMT in individuals with asthma. Although IMT may have favorable effects on inspiratory muscle strength, dyspnea, and medication use, the current evidence that IMT is an effective treatment for asthma is inconclusive.

Fixed-intensity exercise tests to measure exertional dyspnoea in chronic heart and lung populations: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Exertional dyspnoea is the primary diagnostic symptom for chronic cardiopulmonary disease populations. Whilst a number of exercise tests are used, there remains no gold standard clinical measure of exertional dyspnoea. The aim of this review was to comprehensively describe and evaluate all types of fixed-intensity exercise tests used to assess exertional dyspnoea in chronic cardiopulmonary populations and, where possible, report the reliability and responsiveness of the tests.

METHODS

A systematic search of five electronic databases identified papers that examined 1) fixed-intensity exercise tests and measured exertional dyspnoea, 2) chronic cardiopulmonary populations, 3) exertional dyspnoea reported at isotime or upon completion of fixed-duration exercise tests, and 4) published in English.

RESULTS

Searches identified 8785 papers. 123 papers were included, covering exercise tests using a variety of fixed-intensity protocols. Three modes were identified, as follows: 1) cycling (n=87), 2) walking (n=31) and 3) other (step test (n=8) and arm exercise (n=2)). Most studies (98%) were performed on chronic respiratory disease patients. Nearly all studies (88%) used an incremental exercise test. 34% of studies used a fixed duration for the exercise test, with the remaining 66% using an exhaustion protocol recording exertional dyspnoea at isotime. Exertional dyspnoea was measured using the Borg scale (89%). 7% of studies reported reliability. Most studies (72%) examined the change in exertional dyspnoea in response to different interventions.

CONCLUSION

Considerable methodological variety of fixed-intensity exercise tests exists to assess exertional dyspnoea and most test protocols require incremental exercise tests. There does not appear to be a simple, universal test for measuring exertional dyspnoea in the clinical setting.

The Effectiveness of Home-Based Inspiratory Muscle Training on Small Airway Function and Disease-Associated Symptoms in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by persistent airflow limitations, occurring mainly in the small airways. Weakness in the respiratory muscles contributes to dyspnea and a decreased exercise capacity in COPD patients. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of home-based inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on small airway function and symptoms in COPD patients. This research adopted a non-randomized controlled-study quasi-experimental design. The IMT program consisted of two 15 min sessions·d-1, 5 d·wk-1, with 40% of the maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax) on each participant's assessment results and lasted for 12 weeks. Small airway function was assessed using plethysmography at baseline and after 12 weeks. The modified British Medical Research Council (mMRC), COPD assessment test (CAT), PImax, and 6 min walking distance (6MWD) were recorded at baseline as well as four, eight, and twelve weeks. Twenty-three participants with at least moderate COPD were enrolled in IMT (n = 16) or in the control group (n = 7) in this study. The study participants were mostly male (82.6%), and the average age was 68.29 ± 10.87 years, with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 23.54 ± 4.79. After 12 weeks, the ratios of the first second of forced expiration to the forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC%) (B coefficient [95% Wald confidence interval] of 5.21 [0.46 to 9.96], p = 0.032), forced expiratory flow (FEF25-75%) (0.20 [0.04 to 0.35] L/s, p = 0.012), and FEF50% (0.26 [0.08 to 0.43] L/s, p = 0.004) in the IMT group were significantly better than in the control group. The IMT group showed significantly lower CAT scores at week 8 (-5.50 [-10.31 to -0.695] scores, p = 0.025) than the control group. The mMRC grade, CAT score, PImax, and 6MWD were significantly improved compared to their values at baseline in the IMT group. Home-based IMT effectively improved post-bronchodilator small airway function and disease-associated symptoms in COPD patients.

Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction: A Clinical Review

Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) for the treatment of emphysema was originally developed in the early 2000s as a minimally invasive alternative to lung volume reduction surgery. Endobronchial valves for BLVR are an advancing "guideline treatment" in the treatment of advanced emphysema. Placement of small, one-way valves into segmental or subsegmental airways can induce lobar atelectasis for portions of diseased lung. This results in the reduction of hyperinflation along with improvements in diaphragmatic curvature and excursion.

Evaluation and Management of Dyspnea in Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Generalized Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder: Protocol for a Pilot and Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Dyspnea is a prevalent symptom in individuals with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and generalized hypermobility spectrum disorder (G-HSD), yet its contributors have not been identified. One known contributor to dyspnea is respiratory muscle weakness. The feasibility and effectiveness of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in combination with standard-of-care rehabilitation (aerobic, resistance, neuromuscular stabilization, and balance and proprioception exercises) in improving respiratory muscle strength and patient-reported outcomes in patients with hEDS or G-HSD have not been evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate dyspnea, respiratory muscle strength, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in hEDS or G-HSD compared with healthy controls and to assess the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial of IMT and standard-of-care rehabilitation for improving respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, and PROMs compared with standard-of-care rehabilitation in hEDS and G-HSD.

METHODS

The study will include 34 participants with hEDS or G-HSD and 17 healthy, age- and sex-matched controls to compare respiratory muscle structure and function and PROMs. After baseline assessments, participants with hEDS or G-HSD will be randomized into the intervention group and provided IMT combined with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome standard-of-care rehabilitation or into the usual care group, and provided only standard-of-care rehabilitation for 8 weeks. The intervention group will be prescribed IMT in their home environment using the POWERbreathe K5 IMT device (POWERbreathe International Ltd). IMT will comprise 2 daily sessions of 30 breaths for 5 days per week, with IMT progressing from 20% to 60% of the baseline maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) over an 8-week period. Feasibility will be assessed through rates of recruitment, attrition, adherence, adverse events, and participant satisfaction. The primary pilot outcome is MIP change over an 8-week period in hEDS or G-HSD. Secondary outcomes will include the evaluation of dyspnea using Medical Research Council Scale and 18-point qualitative dyspnea descriptors; diaphragmatic thickening fraction using ultrasound; respiratory muscle endurance; pulmonary function; prefrontal cortical activity using functional near-infrared spectroscopy; aerobic capacity during cardiopulmonary exercise testing; quality of life using Short Form-36; and scores from the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scale-21. These measures will also be performed once in healthy controls to compare normative values. Multivariable regression will be used to assess the contributors to dyspnea. Paired 2-tailed t tests will be used to assess the changes in MIP and secondary measures after 8 weeks of IMT.

RESULTS

Study recruitment began in August 2021 and, with several disruptions owing to COVID-19, is expected to be completed by December 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will provide a better understanding of the factors associated with dyspnea and the feasibility and effectiveness of IMT combined with standard-of-care rehabilitation. IMT may be a novel therapeutic strategy for improving respiratory muscle function and patient-reported outcomes in individuals with hEDS or G-HSD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04972565; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04972565.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/44832.

Reply to Yigit, S.; Akinci, B. Comment on "Vázquez-Gandullo et al. Inspiratory Muscle Training in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) as Part of a Respiratory Rehabilitation Program Implementation of Mechanical Devices: A Systematic Review. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 5564"

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Inspiratory muscle training, with or without concomitant pulmonary rehabilitation, for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

BACKGROUND

Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) aims to improve respiratory muscle strength and endurance. Clinical trials used various training protocols, devices and respiratory measurements to check the effectiveness of this intervention. The current guidelines reported a possible advantage of IMT, particularly in people with respiratory muscle weakness. However, it remains unclear to what extent IMT is clinically beneficial, especially when associated with pulmonary rehabilitation (PR).   OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as a stand-alone intervention and when combined with pulmonary rehabilitation (PR).

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Airways trials register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) EBSCO, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform on 20 October 2021. We also checked reference lists of all primary studies and review articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared IMT in combination with PR versus PR alone and IMT versus control/sham. We included different types of IMT irrespective of the mode of delivery. We excluded trials that used resistive devices without controlling the breathing pattern or a training load of less than 30% of maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax), or both.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methods recommended by Cochrane including assessment of risk of bias with RoB 2. Our primary outcomes were dyspnea, functional exercise capacity and health-related quality of life.  MAIN RESULTS: We included 55 RCTs in this review. Both IMT and PR protocols varied significantly across the trials, especially in training duration, loads, devices, number/ frequency of sessions and the PR programs. Only eight trials were at low risk of bias. PR+IMT versus PR We included 22 trials (1446 participants) in this comparison. Based on a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of -1 unit, we did not find an improvement in dyspnea assessed with the Borg scale at submaximal exercise capacity (mean difference (MD) 0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.42 to 0.79; 2 RCTs, 202 participants; moderate-certainty evidence).   We also found no improvement in dyspnea assessed with themodified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (mMRC) according to an MCID between -0.5 and -1 unit (MD -0.12, 95% CI -0.39 to 0.14; 2 RCTs, 204 participants; very low-certainty evidence).  Pooling evidence for the 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) showed an increase of 5.95 meters (95% CI -5.73 to 17.63; 12 RCTs, 1199 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and failed to reach the MCID of 26 meters. In subgroup analysis, we divided the RCTs according to the training duration and mean baseline PImax. The test for subgroup differences was not significant. Trials at low risk of bias (n = 3) demonstrated a larger effect estimate than the overall. The summary effect of the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) revealed an overall total score below the MCID of 4 units (MD 0.13, 95% CI -0.93 to 1.20; 7 RCTs, 908 participants; low-certainty evidence).  The summary effect of COPD Assessment Test (CAT) did not show an improvement in the HRQoL (MD 0.13, 95% CI -0.80 to 1.06; 2 RCTs, 657 participants; very low-certainty evidence), according to an MCID of -1.6 units.  Pooling the RCTs that reported PImax showed an increase of 11.46 cmH₂O (95% CI 7.42 to 15.50; 17 RCTs, 1329 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) but failed to reach the MCID of 17.2 cmH₂O.  In subgroup analysis, we did not find a difference between different training durations and between studies judged with and without respiratory muscle weakness.  One abstract reported some adverse effects that were considered "minor and self-limited". IMT versus control/sham Thirty-seven RCTs with 1021 participants contributed to our second comparison. There was a trend towards an improvement when Borg was calculated at submaximal exercise capacity (MD -0.94, 95% CI -1.36 to -0.51; 6 RCTs, 144 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Only one trial was at a low risk of bias. Eight studies (nine arms) used the Baseline Dyspnea Index - Transition Dyspnea Index (BDI-TDI). Based on an MCID of +1 unit, they showed an improvement only with the 'total score' of the TDI (MD 2.98, 95% CI 2.07 to 3.89; 8 RCTs, 238 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We did not find a difference between studies classified as with and without respiratory muscle weakness. Only one trial was at low risk of bias. Four studies reported the mMRC, revealing a possible improvement in dyspnea in the IMT group (MD -0.59, 95% CI -0.76 to -0.43; 4 RCTs, 150 participants; low-certainty evidence). Two trials were at low risk of bias. Compared to control/sham, the MD in the 6MWD following IMT was 35.71 (95% CI 25.68 to 45.74; 16 RCTs, 501 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Two studies were at low risk of bias. In subgroup analysis, we did not find a difference between different training durations and between studies judged with and without respiratory muscle weakness.  Six studies reported theSGRQ total score, showing a larger effect in the IMT group (MD -3.85, 95% CI -8.18 to 0.48; 6 RCTs, 182 participants; very low-certainty evidence). The lower limit of the 95% CI exceeded the MCID of -4 units. Only one study was at low risk of bias. There was an improvement in life quality with CAT (MD -2.97, 95% CI -3.85 to -2.10; 2 RCTs, 86 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). One trial was at low risk of bias. Thirty-two RCTs reported PImax, showing an improvement without reaching the MCID (MD 14.57 cmH₂O, 95% CI 9.85 to 19.29; 32 RCTs, 916 participants; low-certainty evidence). In subgroup analysis, we did not find a difference between different training durations and between studies judged with and without respiratory muscle weakness.   None of the included RCTs reported adverse events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

IMT may not improve dyspnea, functional exercise capacity and life quality when associated with PR. However, IMT is likely to improve these outcomes when provided alone. For both interventions, a larger effect in participants with respiratory muscle weakness and with longer training durations is still to be confirmed.

Understanding the Impact of Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Airway Resistance in Patients with Severe COPD: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

Purpose

We investigated the effect of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) on airway resistance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with severe airway obstruction and hyperinflation.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted with data from severe COPD cases with those who underwent an 8-week PR program. Main inclusion criteria were having severe airflow obstruction (defined as a forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁) <50%) and plethysmographic evaluation findings being compatible with hyperinflation supporting the diagnosis of emphysema (presence of hyperinflation defined as functional residual capacity ratio of residual volume to total lung capacity (RV/TLC) >120%). Primary outcomes were airway resistance (R_aw) and airway conductance (G_aw) which were measured by body plethysmography, and other measurements were performed, including 6-minute walk test (6-MWT), modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (mMRC) and COPD assessment test (CAT).

Results

Twenty-six severe and very severe COPD patients (FEV_1, 35.0 ± 13.1%; RV/TLC, 163.5 ± 29.4) were included in the analyses, mean age 62.6 ± 5.8 years and 88.5% males. Following rehabilitation, significant improvements in total specific airway resistance percentage (sR_awtot%, p = 0.040) and total specific airway conductance percentage (sG_awtot%; p = 0.010) were observed. The post-rehabilitation mMRC scores and CAT values were significantly decreased compared to baseline results (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Although there were significant improvements in 6-MWT value (p < 0.001), exercise desaturation (ΔSaO₂, p = 0.026), the changes in measured lung capacity and volume values were not significant.

Conclusion

We concluded that PR may have a positive effect on airway resistance and airway conductance in COPD patients with severe airflow obstruction.

Efetividade de diferentes protocolos e cargas utilizadas no treinamento muscular inspiratório de indivíduos com DPOC: uma revisão sistemática

RESUMO A doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) provoca alterações no sistema musculoesquelético, afetando inclusive os músculos respiratórios e levando ao aumento da dispneia e à redução da capacidade funcional. Nesse sentido, o treinamento muscular inspiratório (TMI) deve fazer parte do programa de reabilitação pulmonar. Diversos estudos já demonstraram sua eficácia, contudo, ainda é necessário investigar qual a melhor forma de realizá-lo. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi investigar por meio de uma revisão sistemática a efetividade de diferentes protocolos e cargas de TMI sobre os desfechos de força e resistência dos músculos inspiratórios, bem como de capacidade funcional e redução da dispneia. Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática realizada de acordo com o protocolo PRISMA. A busca foi realizada em fevereiro de 2021, nas seguintes bases de dados: PubMed, SciELO, PEDro. Para a busca dos artigos, os seguintes descritores foram empregados: “COPD”; e “breathing exercises, resistive training, respiratory muscle training”. Um total de 398 pacientes foram incluídos nos 10 estudos selecionados, todos previamente diagnosticados com DPOC. Foram utilizados diferentes dispositivos para o TMI, e os protocolos variaram em relação às cargas e progressão. O dispositivo mais utilizado entre os artigos foi o Threshold, com carga estabelecida de acordo com a porcentagem da pressão inspiratória máxima (30-80%), reajustada de acordo com novas medições a cada uma ou duas semanas. Houve semelhança de resultados positivos encontrados tanto em treinamentos com cargas baixas quanto com cargas altas, havendo uma melhora na força muscular inspiratória, capacidade funcional e dispneia. No entanto, mais estudos são necessários para definir o melhor protocolo de TMI para DPOC.

Effectiveness of different protocols and loads used in inspiratory muscle training of individuals with COPD: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) changes the musculoskeletal system, including the respiratory muscles, which are responsible for increasing dyspnea and reducing functional capacity. Several studies have already showed the effectiveness of inspiratory muscle training (IMT); therefore, it should be part of the pulmonary rehabilitation program. However, assessing the best way to do it is still necessary. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate, by a systematic review, the effectiveness of different IMT protocols and loads on the outcomes of inspiratory muscle strength and endurance, functional capacity, and dyspnea reduction. This systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA protocol. Studies were searched in February 2021 in the PubMed, SciELO, PEDro. For the search, the following keywords were used: “COPD” and “breathing exercises, resistive training, respiratory muscle training.” A total of 398 individuals previously diagnosed with COPD were included in the 10 selected studies. Different IMT devices were used and protocols varied in relation to loads and progression. Threshold was the most used IMT device. Its load was established according to the percentage of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) (30-80%) and readjusted according to new measurements taken every one or two weeks. Respiratory muscle training with both low loads and high loads presented positive results, however, establishing which is the best IMT protocol for individuals with COPD is not possible yet. Inspiratory muscle strength, functional capacity, and dyspnea get better with IMT.

Inspiratory Muscle Training in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) as Part of a Respiratory Rehabilitation Program Implementation of Mechanical Devices: A Systematic Review

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a complex and heterogeneous disease, with pulmonary and extrapulmonary manifestations, which leads to the need to personalize the assessment and treatment of these patients. The latest updates of national and international guidelines for the management of COPD reveal the importance of respiratory rehabilitation (RR) and its role in improving symptoms, quality of life, and psychosocial sphere of patients. Within RR, the inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has received special interest, showing benefits in maximum inspiratory pressure, perception of well-being, and health status in patients with chronic heart disease, respiratory diseases, and dyspnea during exercise. The aim of this review is to assess the efficacy of IMT in COPD patients through the use of inspiratory muscle training devices, compared with respiratory rehabilitation programs without inspiratory muscle training. In the last years, many mechanical devices focused on inspiratory muscle training have been developed, some of them, such as the AirOFit PRO™, PowerBreath®, or FeelBreathe®, have shown clear benefits. The active search for candidate patients to undergo the RR program with inspiratory muscle training using this type of device in COPD patients represents an advance in the treatment of this disease, with direct benefits on the quality of life of the patients. In this article, we review the available evidence on IMT in these patients and describe the different devices used for it.

Respiratory Muscle Training Can Improve Cognition, Lung Function, and Diaphragmatic Thickness Fraction in Male and Non-Obese Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Prospective Study

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are frequently comorbid with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Whether respiratory muscle training (RMT) is helpful for patients with COPD comorbid MCI remains unclear. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) with or without expiratory muscle training (EMT) was performed. Patients were randomly assigned to the full training group (EMT + IMT) or the simple training group (IMT only). A total of 49 patients completed the eight-week course of RMT training. RMT significantly improved the maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), the diaphragmatic thickness fraction and excursion, lung function, scores in the COPD assessment test (CAT), modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale scores, and MMSE. The between-group difference in the full training and single training group was not significant. Subgroup analysis classified by the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) level of patients showed no significant differences in MIP, lung function, cognitive function, and walking distance. However, a significant increase in diaphragmatic thickness was found in patients with FEV1 ≥ 30%. We suggest that patients with COPD should start RMT earlier in their disease course to improve physical activity.

Inspiratory Muscle Training for Asthmatic Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies

Introduction The efficacy of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) for asthma control remains controversial. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the influence of IMT on asthma control.

Methods We search PubMed, EMbase, Web of science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases through May 2020 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of IMT for asthma control. This meta-analysis is performed using the random-effect model.

Results Six RCTs are included in the meta-analysis. Overall, compared with control group for asthma, IMT can remarkably increase MIP (SMD=3.32; 95% CI=1.73 to 4.91; P<0.0001) and decrease dyspnea scores (SMD=−0.77; 95% CI=−1.34 to −0.21; P=0.007), but has no obvious effect on FEV1 (SMD=0.36; 95% CI=−0.74 to 1.45; P=0.52) or FVC (SMD=2.09; 95% CI=−0.70 to 4.89; P=0.14).

Conclusions IMT may benefit to the treatment of asthma.

Effects of an Integrated Exercise Program Including "Functional" Inspiratory Muscle Training in Geriatric Individuals with and without Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

BACKGROUND

Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is a commonly used exercise method for both patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the older adult population. In addition to their primary function, respiratory muscles play an active role in core stabilization. However, no IMT program includes both of these functions (i.e., core stabilization and postural control functions as well as respiration). This study investigated the effects of a newly integrated exercise program, termed "functional IMT," in geriatric individuals with and without COPD.

METHODS

This prospective and experimental study included 45 geriatric individuals with COPD (n=22) and without COPD (n=23). The training program consisted of 4 weeks of conventional IMT followed by 4 weeks of functional IMT. Respiratory muscle strength, symptoms, exercise capacity, balance, postural control, physical activity, and quality of life were evaluated.

RESULTS

After training, respiratory muscle strength, symptoms, exercise capacity, balance, postural control, and quality of life improved in both groups (p&lt;0.05). In addition, physical activity was increased in the COPD group (p&lt;0.05). We observed no statistically significant difference in outcomes between the two groups before and after treatment (p&gt;0.05).

CONCLUSION

The gains were similar in both groups. Functional IMT, which is an integrated approach that includes all respiratory muscle functions, is a safe, effective, and innovative method for use in geriatric individuals with and without COPD.

How Breathing Exercises Influence on Respiratory Muscles and Quality of Life among Patients with COPD? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Aim

This systematic review aimed to investigate the effect of different breathing exercises on respiratory muscle function, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and quality of life (QoL) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

We searched online databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Ovid for randomized controlled trials that assessed the efficacy of breathing exercises on patients with COPD. Patient outcome parameters included changes in respiratory muscle function, 6MWT, and QoL. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias for each included study. Subgroup analyses concerning different interventions and outcome measurements were conducted as necessary. PROSPERO registration number is CRD42018118367.

Results

A total of 17 studies were included for final analysis. Meta-analysis based on the relevant studies showed that breathing exercises had a significant total effect on pulmonary function PImax (mean difference (MD) = 8.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.13-14.16, P=0.002), as well as 6MWT (MD = 27.70, 95% CI 5.45-49.94, P=0.01) in patients with COPD.

Conclusions

This systematic review summarized the use of breathing exercises for treating patients with COPD. Breathing exercises were found to be an effective tool for treating patients with COPD by improving inspiratory muscle strength and 6MWT. However, breathing exercises showed no significant improvements on the QoL of patients with COPD.

Effects of inspiratory muscle training on resting breathing pattern in patients with advanced lung disease

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of interval high intensity inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on resting breathing pattern in patients with advanced lung disease.

METHODS

IMT was performed daily and training load set at 50 % of the maximal inspiratory pressure. Participants were evaluated at pre-IMT, post 8 weeks of IMT and follow-up (3 months after the end of IMT). Breathing pattern (volume and time variables as well as percentages of contribution to tidal volume) was evaluated by Optoelectronic Plethysmography at rest. Friedman test was used to verify the differences between the three time-points (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Nineteen patients (54 ± 16 years old; 5 males) were evaluated at pre-IMT and post-IMT and fourteen were assessed at follow-up. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in any comparison for all evaluated breathing pattern variables at the three time-points.

CONCLUSION

Resting breathing pattern was not significantly changed after 8 weeks of IMT in patients with advanced lung disease.

A randomized placebo-controlled study investigating the efficacy of inspiratory muscle training in the treatment of children with bronchial asthma

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on respiratory functions, respiratory muscle strength, and asthma symptoms in asthmatic children.

METHODS

In a randomized placebo-controlled assessor-blinded study, 34 children with asthma were randomized to receive either the IMT at 40% of the maximal inspiratory pressure (IP_max) for 20 min/session, thrice/week, over 12 consecutive weeks (IMT group; n = 17) or placebo IMT at 5% of IP_max (placebo group; n = 17). Additionally, both groups received the conventional respiratory rehabilitation (CRR) program. Outcome measurements performed pre- and post-treatment, included respiratory functions [forced expiratory volume at the first second (FEV₁), forced vital capacity (FEV), and FEV₁/FVC], respiratory muscle strength [represented by IP_max and maximal expiratory pressure (EP_max), and asthma control test (ACT).

RESULTS

At a significance level adjusted to P<.008, there were significant post-treatment differences between the IMT and placebo groups in FEV₁ (P=.003), FVC (P=.001), FEV₁/FVC (P=.004), IP_max (P=.002), EP_max (P=.004), and ACT (P=.001) adjusted to the pretreatment values, in favor of the IMT group.

CONCLUSION

Incorporation of IMT in the CRR program for children with asthma can improve respiratory function, enhance respiratory muscle strength, and improve children's perception of asthma symptoms.

Pattern of respiratory muscle activity during exercise tests in children born prematurely

INTRODUCTION

Preterm children display only slightly lower exercise capacity than term children do during their development, despite their previous cardiopulmonary impairments. This raises doubts about the role of the respiratory muscles' influence on exercise capacity. This study aimed to compare respiratory muscle activity in preterm and term children using an exercise test.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study involved comparison of 35 term children and 39 matched preterm children aged 6-9 years, who were born prematurely with a birth weight <1500 g. An adapted treadmill incremental test was utilized and surface electromyography of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), upper trapezius (UT), and rectus abdominis (RA) muscles was performed. The root mean square was calculated every minute and compared between and within groups. A Monte Carlo simulation was also applied, and the area under the curve was calculated to evaluate the differences between groups.

RESULTS

During the entire exercise, the SCM muscle activity was higher in preterm children with a larger area under the curve than in the term children. There was no difference in the RA and UT muscle activity between groups throughout the test.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest a greater contribution of the SCM muscle sin preterm children's performance than in term children's performance during high-intensity exercises.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Brazilian Clinical Trial Registry (ReBec) - RBR-89hr2h.

A New Nasal Restriction Device Called FeelBreathe® Improves Breathing Patterns in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients during Exercise

A device called FeelBreathe (FB)^® was designed, developed, and patented for inspiratory muscle training. The main aim was to determine the acute responses on lung ventilation, gas exchange, and heart rate during exercise in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with and without the use of FB. In this study, a randomized cross-over trial was performed with 18 men diagnosed with COPD (FEV₁ between 30% and 70% of its predicted value). Each participant randomly conducted two trials with 30 min of rest between them with the same protocol on a treadmill for 10 min at a constant rate of 50% of VO_2peak. Each test was performed randomly and in a crossover randomized design in two different conditions: (1) oronasal breathing; and (2) nasal breathing with FB (nasal ventilatory flow restriction device). It was observed that FB had positive effects on dynamic hyperinflation, breathing pattern, and breathing efficiency, with higher expiratory and inspiratory time. Despite these differences, blood oxygen saturation percentage, oxygen uptake, and heart rate showed a similar response for both conditions during exercise. The results suggest that exercise performed with FB improved ventilatory responses compared to the oronasal mode in COPD patients. This new tool could be used during most daily tasks and exercise programs.

Exercise and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Systemic effects of COPD lead to cardiovascular co-morbidities, muscle wasting and osteoporosis that, in turn, lead to inactivity and physical deconditioning. This evolution has a direct influence on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients suffering from this respiratory disease. Pharmacological therapy leads to improvement in shortness of breath, but it has a limited effect on the physical deconditioning. Pulmonary rehabilitation relieves dyspnoea and fatigue, improves emotional function and enhances the sense of control that individuals have over their condition. These improvements are moderately substantial and clinically significant. Rehabilitation serves as an essential component of the management of COPD and is beneficial in improving health-related quality of life and exercise capacity.

Pulmonary rehabilitation for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: effects of a high versus low intensity programme

Background/Aims

Pulmonary rehabilitation is known to facilitate improvements in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease symptoms, exercise tolerance and quality of life. Despite this, there is no consensus on the ideal programme intensity. This article aims to explore and compare the benefits of a high intensity and low intensity pulmonary rehabilitation programme.

Methods

A total of 30 patients with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were randomly and blindly allocated to either a high intensity or low intensity 12-week pulmonary rehabilitation programme.

Results

Significant improvements in functional and health-related quality of life measures were obtained in both groups. Most of the significant changes for the high intensity group were achieved by week 8. The low intensity group required a further 4 weeks of rehabilitation in order to reach a significant difference.

Conclusions

Results show that both low and high intensity pulmonary rehabilitation programmes were beneficial. However, the high intensity programme was more efficient in achieving these improvements than the low intensity group.

Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training in the Management of Patients With Asthma: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, dyspnea, fatigue, quality of life, and daily living activities of asthmatic patients.

METHODS

Thirty-eight asthmatic patients, between 18 and 65 years of age, were enrolled in the study and randomly divided into 2 groups; IMT (n = 20) or control (n = 18). Participants in the IMT group performed 30 breaths using a patient-specific threshold pressure device, twice daily for 6 wk at 50% maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), in addition to "breathing training" during this period. Participants in the control group performed only the "breathing training" (sham or no threshold pressure device). Outcome measurements, performed before and after the intervention, included pulmonary function test, respiratory muscle strength, 6-min walk test, modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale, St George's Respiratory Questionnaire, Fatigue Severity Scale, and London Chest Activity of Daily Living scale.

RESULTS

Among the outcomes in the study, changes to key variables including MIP (P < .01); MIP, percent predicted (P < .01); maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), percent predicted (P < .01); 6-min walk test walking distance (P = .001); modified Medical Research Council scale (P =<.001); Fatigue Severity Scale (P = .03); St George's Respiratory Questionnaire symptoms (P = .03); London Chest Activity of Daily Living domestic (P = .03); and London Chest Activity of Daily Living leisure (P = .01) were significantly different in favor of IMT versus control.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that IMT may be an effective modality to enhance respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, quality of life, daily living activities, reduced perception of dyspnea, and fatigue in asthmatic patients.

Inspiratory muscle strength training improves lung function in patients with the hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A randomized controlled trial

As exertional inspiratory dyspnea is a common disabling complaint in hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) often also known as joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS), we investigated inspiratory muscle (IM) strength in patients with hEDS, and we assessed the effects of IM training (IMT) on IM strength, lung function, and exercise capacity. A prospective evaluation of IM strength followed by a randomized controlled trial of IMT was performed in women with hEDS. Sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP) was used to routinely measure IM strength and IMT was carried out using a pressure threshold device. IM strength (main outcome), cardiopulmonary function, exercise capacity, and emotional distress of both the treated and control groups were evaluated at the start and at the end of the 6-week training period. IM strength was reduced (<80% of predicted) in 77% of patients (80/104). Lung function was normal, although 24% of patients had a higher forced expiratory vital capacity (FVC) than normal and 12% of patients had a higher total lung capacity (TLC) than normal. Both the IMT and control groups (n = 20) had similar baseline characteristics. Significant changes were noted only in the IMT group after IMT. At the end of the program, IMT improved SNIP (20%) (before: 41 ± 17 cm H₂ O [28, 53] vs. after: 49 ± 18 cm H₂ O [34;65]), six-minute walking distance (6MWD) (60 m) (455 ± 107 m [379,532] vs. 515 ± 127 m [408, 621]), and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (285 mL) (94 ± 14% pred [84,104] vs. 103 ± 11% pred [94, 112]). IM strength is significantly reduced in patients with hEDS. IMT improved IM strength, lung function, and exercise capacity. Our findings suggest that IMT should be added to usual care.

Effect of Lung Volume Reduction Surgery on Respiratory Muscle Strength in Advanced Emphysema

Background: Long-term effects of lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) on respiratory muscle strength and effects of age, sex, and emphysema pattern on these changes are unknown. Therefore, we aimed to determine the long-term effect of LVRS on respiratory muscle strength changes in severe emphysema. Methods: The National Emphysema Treatment Trial was a prospective controlled multicentered trial, comparing LVRS to optimal medical treatment on survival and maximal exercise capacity. We examined percentage change in maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) from baseline to 36 months follow-up to determine impact of LVRS as well as age, sex, emphysema pattern and exercise capacity on changes in MIP compared to medical treatment. Results: LVRS individuals had significantly greater increases in MIP from baseline compared to medical individuals at all follow-ups (LVRS 19.8 ± 42.3%, medical 3.2 ± 29.3%, p<0.0001, 12 months). The LVRS group had significant decreases in total lung capacity (TLC), residual volume (RV), functional residual capacity (FRC) and RV/TLC compared to the medical arm at all follow-up periods. Males and individuals 65-70 years of age had significantly greater increases in MIP following LVRS compared to the medical arm at all follow-ups; this same relationship was seen at up to 24 months for low exercise capacity, upper lobe predominant emphysema. Conclusions: LVRS significantly increases inspiratory muscle strength up to 3 years post-operatively, with male sex, age 65-70 years and low exercise capacity, upper lobe predominant emphysema especially associated with increased MIP. Inspiratory muscle strength increases were associated with decreases in non-invasive markers of dynamic hyperinflation, suggesting that LVRS allows inspiratory muscles to return to their optimal length-tension relationship.

Effects of upper limb resistance exercise on aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and quality of life in COPD patients: a randomized controlled trial

Objective:

To evaluate the effects of upper limb resistance exercise on the functional capacity, muscle function, and quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Setting:

Clinical School of Physiotherapy in a Public University of Brazil.

Subjects:

58 patients were recruited; of these, 7 were excluded and 51 individuals were enrolled.

Intervention:

Control group performed warm-up, aerobic exercise, inspiratory muscle training, and session stretching, followed by massage therapy. The treatment group performed warm-up, aerobic exercise, inspiratory muscle training, three sets of upper limb resistance exercise, and session stretching, followed by massage therapy. Total three sessions per week for eight weeks.

Primary outcome measures:

6-minute walk test, respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, dyspnea, and quality of life. Normality of the data was tested using the Shapiro–Wilk test; paired analysis of variance was used for intergroup analyses.

Results:

51 patients (25 in the control group and 26 in the treatment group); 41% of the subjects were men. Mean forced expiratory volume was 2.6 ± 0.6 L, and mean body mass index was 27.3 ± 7.0 kg/m2. The upper limb resistance exercise resulted in significantly greater benefit in terms of exercise capacity (88.5 ± 81.9 m, P = 0.043), inspiratory muscle strength (22.9 ± 24.2 cm H2O, P = 0.001), upper limb muscle strength (2.3 ± 3.1 kg, P = 0.027), and quality of life scores (−15.3 ± 10.9 points, P = 0.000).

Conclusion:

Upper limb resistance exercise improved the exercise capacity, respiratory muscle strength, and quality of life.

Inspiratory muscle training reduces diaphragm activation and dyspnea during exercise in COPD

Among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), those with the lowest maximal inspiratory pressures experience greater breathing discomfort (dyspnea) during exercise. In such individuals, inspiratory muscle training (IMT) may be associated with improvement of dyspnea, but the mechanisms for this are poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to identify physiological mechanisms of improvement in dyspnea and exercise endurance following inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in patients with COPD and low maximal inspiratory pressure (Pi_max). The effects of 8 wk of controlled IMT on respiratory muscle function, dyspnea, respiratory mechanics, and diaphragm electromyography (EMGdi) during constant work rate cycle exercise were evaluated in patients with activity-related dyspnea (baseline dyspnea index <9). Subjects were randomized to either IMT or a sham training control group ( n = 10 each). Twenty subjects (FEV₁ = 47 ± 19% predicted; Pi_max  = -59 ± 14 cmH₂O; cycle ergometer peak work rate = 47 ± 21% predicted) completed the study; groups had comparable baseline lung function, respiratory muscle strength, activity-related dyspnea, and exercise capacity. IMT, compared with control, was associated with greater increases in inspiratory muscle strength and endurance, with attendant improvements in exertional dyspnea and exercise endurance time (all P < 0.05). After IMT, EMGdi expressed relative to its maximum (EMGdi/EMGdi_max) decreased ( P < 0.05) with no significant change in ventilation, tidal inspiratory pressures, breathing pattern, or operating lung volumes during exercise. In conclusion, IMT improved inspiratory muscle strength and endurance in mechanically compromised patients with COPD and low Pi_max. The attendant reduction in EMGdi/EMGdi_max helped explain the decrease in perceived respiratory discomfort despite sustained high ventilation and intrinsic mechanical loading over a longer exercise duration. NEW & NOTEWORTHY In patients with COPD and low maximal inspiratory pressures, inspiratory muscle training (IMT) may be associated with improvement of dyspnea, but the mechanisms for this are poorly understood. This study showed that 8 wk of home-based, partially supervised IMT improved respiratory muscle strength and endurance, dyspnea, and exercise endurance. Dyspnea relief occurred in conjunction with a reduced activation of the diaphragm relative to maximum in the absence of significant changes in ventilation, breathing pattern, and operating lung volumes.

A comprehensive protocol for physiokinesis therapy and enhanced recovery after surgery in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy

Background

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy has recently been adopted as the gold standard surgical option for the treatment of early stage non-small cell lung cancer. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is being progressively adopted in thoracic surgery to improve the postoperative outcomes. Even if the benefits of ERAS are universally accepted, to date a standardized and uniform approach has not been described in the medical literature. The Italian VATS group has recently proposed to include in the VATS lobectomy database a structured protocol for ERAS.

Methods

The ERAS section of the Italian VATS group is proposing a comprehensive ERAS protocol within the VATS lobectomy database, allowing the prospective collection of a dedicated set of data. Separate sections of the protocol are dedicated to different topics of ERAS. This study is specifically dedicated to the section of physiokinesis therapy. The medical literature will be extensively reviewed and a physiotherapy (PT) protocol of ERAS will be presented and discussed. A seta of structured clinical pathways will also be suggested for adoption in the VATS Group database.

Discussion

Pre- and post-operative adoption of an ERAS protocol in patients undergoing VATS lobectomy may promote an improved post-operative course, a shorter hospital stay and an overall more comfortable patients' experience. The mainstays of a physiokinesis therapy ERAS protocol are patients' education, constant physical and respiratory therapy sessions, and adoption of adequate devices. Although many studies have investigated the usefulness of physical and respiratory physiokinesis therapy, a comprehensive ERAS protocol for VATS lobectomy patients has not yet been described. The proposed ERAS platform, adopted by the VATS Group database, will contribute to a prospective data collection and allow a scientific analysis of the results.

The relationship between exercise capacity and different functional markers in pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD

Rationale

The relationship of functional parameters such as lung mechanics, chest kinematics, metabolism and peripheral and respiratory muscle function with the level of exercise tolerance remains a controversial subject. While it has been previously shown that pulmonary rehabilitation is capable of improving exercise tolerance in patients afflicted by COPD, as expressed by values of 6-minute walking test (6MWT), the degree of contribution to this change by each of the aforementioned parameters remains unclear.

Aims

To investigate the correlation between changes in exercise capacity and other functional markers following pulmonary rehabilitation in COPD and to determine which parameters are more closely related to improvements of exercise tolerance.

Materials and methods

Three hundred and twenty-seven patients with COPD (with average, 95% CI for forced expiratory volume in the first second [FEV₁]: 45% [25%–83%] predicted, age: 64 [48–80] years, and BMI: 27 [13.5–40.4] kg/m²) participated in this study. Thirty percent of the patients had pulmonary hypertension as comorbidity. Patients underwent a pulmonary rehabilitation program with 20–30 minutes sessions two to three times per day for 4 weeks. The program was composed of chest wall-stretching, controlled breathing exercises, and a personalized training schedule for cycling and treadmill use. Measurements of 6MWT, lung function, chest wall expansion, grip strength, maximal inspiratory pressure, and breath holding time were taken. The Body mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise capacity (BODE-index), body mass index [BMI], FEV₁, 6MWT, modified Medical Research Dyspnea Scale score, and an alternative scale score (for BMI, FEV₁, 6MWT, and COPD Assessment Test) were calculated.

Results

Rehabilitation resulted in a generalized improvement in 6MWT among patients (average: 360 [95% CI: 178–543 m] vs average: 420 [95% CI: 238–601 m], p<0.05). Improvements in exercise tolerance were found to be most closely associated with changes in composite BODE-index (R²=−0.6), Alternative Scale (R²=−0.56), dyspnea score (modified Medical Research Dyspnea Scale R²=−0.54), and health status (COPD Assessment Test R²=−0.4, p<0.05). In addition, improvements in exercise tolerance were found to moderately correlate with improvements in inspiratory vital capacity (IVC, R²=0.34, p<0.05). Post-rehabilitation changes in IVC displayed a connection with grip strength (R²=0.6) and chest expansion (R²=0.48).

Conclusion

Enhancements in exercise tolerance had correlation with changes in IVC, BODE-index, and the new Alternative Scale. However, comprehensive assessment needs to include considerations of chest kinematics and peripheral and respiratory muscle function as well.

The effectiveness of combining inspiratory muscle training with manual therapy and a therapeutic exercise program on maximum inspiratory pressure in adults with asthma: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the addition of manual therapy and therapeutic exercise protocol to inspiratory muscle training was more effective in improving maximum inspiratory pressure than inspiratory muscle training in isolation.

DESIGN

This is a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial.

SUBJECTS

In total, 43 patients with asthma were included in this study.

INTERVENTIONS

The patients were allocated into one of the two groups: (1) inspiratory muscle training ( n = 21; 20-minute session) or (2) inspiratory muscle training (20-minute session) combined with a program of manual therapy (15-minute session) and therapeutic exercise (15-minute session; n = 22). All participants received 12 sessions, two days/week, for six weeks and performed the domiciliary exercises protocol.

MAIN MEASURES

The main measures such as maximum inspiratory pressure, spirometric measures, forward head posture, and thoracic kyphosis were recorded at baseline and after the treatment.

RESULTS

For the per-protocol analysis, between-group differences at post-intervention were observed in maximum inspiratory pressure (19.77 cmH₂O (11.49-28.04), P < .05; F = 22.436; P < .001; η²_p = 0.371) and forward head posture (-1.25 cm (-2.32 to -0.19), P < .05; F = 5.662; P = .022; η²_p = 0.13). The intention-to-treat analysis showed the same pattern of findings.

CONCLUSION

The inspiratory muscle training combined with a manual therapy and therapeutic exercise program is more effective than its application in isolation for producing short-term maximum inspiratory pressure and forward head posture improvements in patients with asthma.

Comparative study of two different respiratory training protocols in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Aim

The aim of the present study was to compare threshold inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and expiratory muscle training (EMT) in elderly male patients with moderate degree of COPD.

Materials and methods

Forty male patients with moderate degree of COPD were recruited for this study. They were randomly divided into two groups: the IMT group who received inspiratory training with an intensity ranging from 15% to 60% of their maximal inspiratory pressure, and the EMT group who received expiratory training with an equal intensity which was adjusted according to the maximal expiratory pressure. Both groups received training three times per week for 2 months, in addition to their prescribed medications.

Results

Both IMT and EMT groups showed a significant improvement in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in the first second, forced expiratory volume in the first second% from the predicted values, and forced vital capacity% from the predicted value, with no difference between the groups. Both types of training resulted in a significant improvement in blood gases (SaO₂%, PaO₂, PaCO₂, and HCO₃), with the inspiratory muscle group showing the best results. Both groups showed a significant improvement in the 6-min walking distance: an increase of about 25% in the inspiratory muscle group and about 2.5% in the expiratory muscle group.

Conclusion

Both IMT and EMT must be implemented in pulmonary rehabilitation programs in order to achieve improvements in pulmonary function test, respiratory muscle strength, blood oxygenation, and 6-min walking distance.

Cycle ergometer and inspiratory muscle training offer modest benefit compared with cycle ergometer alone: a comprehensive assessment in stable COPD patients

BACKGROUND

Cycle ergometer training (CET) has been shown to improve exercise performance of the quadriceps muscles in patients with COPD, and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) may improve the pressure-generating capacity of the inspiratory muscles. However, the effects of combined CET and IMT remain unclear and there is a lack of comprehensive assessment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty-one patients with COPD were randomly allocated to three groups: 28 received 8 weeks of CET + IMT (combined training group), 27 received 8 weeks of CET alone (CET group), and 26 only received 8 weeks of free walking (control group). Comprehensive assessment including respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, pulmonary function, dyspnea, quality of life, emotional status, nutritional status, and body mass index, airflow obstruction, and exercise capacity index were measured before and after the pulmonary rehabilitation program.

RESULTS

Respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, inspiratory capacity, dyspnea, quality of life, depression and anxiety, and nutritional status were all improved in the combined training and CET groups when compared with that in the control group (P<0.05) after pulmonary rehabilitation program. Inspiratory muscle strength increased significantly in the combined training group when compared with that in the CET group (ΔPI_max [maximal inspiratory pressure] 5.20±0.89 cmH₂O vs 1.32±0.91 cmH₂O; P<0.05). However, there were no significant differences in the other indices between the two groups (P>0.05). Patients with weakened respiratory muscles in the combined training group derived no greater benefit than those without respiratory muscle weakness (P>0.05). There were no significant differences in these indices between the patients with malnutrition and normal nutrition after pulmonary rehabilitation program (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Combined training is more effective than CET alone for increasing inspiratory muscle strength. IMT may not be useful when combined with CET in patients with weakened inspiratory muscles. Nutritional status had slight impact on the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation. A comprehensive assessment approach can be more objective to evaluate the effects of combined CET and IMT.

The effects of threshold inspiratory muscle training in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A randomised experimental study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of threshold inspiratory muscle training in patients with stages II through IV chronic obstructive pulmonary disease using maximum inspiratory pressure, baseline dyspnoea index, 6-minute walk test and quality of life.

BACKGROUND

A threshold inspiratory muscle training device provides pressure for inspiratory muscle strength, but there is limited information on the effects of threshold inspiratory muscle training starting at low pressure training.

DESIGN

Randomised experimental design.

METHODS

A total of 55 patients completed this study between September 2013-April 2014. The experimental group (n = 27) was provided medical treatment and routine care, along with five sessions of threshold inspiratory muscle training per week (21-30 min per session), accompanied by a progressive increase in the pressure threshold over a period of 8 weeks. The control group (n = 28) was provided medical treatment and routine care only, without intervention. In the inferential analysis, p values <.05 were considered to indicate statistical significance.

RESULTS

After 8 weeks in the experimental group, mean maximum inspiratory pressure improved by -17.6 ± 0.18 cmH₂ O, mean 6-minute walk test improved by 47.8 ± 1.46 m, and the baseline dyspnoea index increased from 4.48 ± 2.12 points to 9.0 ± 2.27 points. These data and quality of life were statistically different between the experimental and the control groups (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The threshold inspiratory muscle training can reduce patients' difficulties with respect to daily activities, thereby reducing the burden on the family, and improving prognosis in patients with moderate-to-very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The role of physiotherapy in patients undergoing pulmonary surgery for lung cancer. A literature review

This review aims to appraise the role of physiotherapy care in patients submitted to pulmonary surgery, in preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative phases. Pulmonary surgery is the gold standard treatment for patients with lung cancer if it is completely resectable. However, the major impairments and complications induced by surgery are well known. Physiotherapy has been regularly used both in the preparation of the surgical candidates; in their functional recovery in the immediate postoperative period, and in the medium/long term but there is a lack of concise evidence-based recommendations. Therefore, the aim of this review is to appraise the literature about the role of physiotherapy interventions in patients undergoing lung surgery for lung cancer, in preoperative, perioperative, postoperative and maintenance stages, to the recovery and well-being, regardless of the extent of surgical approach. In conclusion, physiotherapy programs should be individually designed, and the goals established according to surgery timings, and according to each subject's needs. It can also be concluded that in the preoperative phase, the main goals are to avoid postoperative pulmonary complications and reduce the length of hospital stay, and the therapeutic targets are respiratory muscle training, bronchial hygiene and exercise training. For the perioperative period, breathing exercises for pulmonary expansion and bronchial hygiene, as well as early mobilization and deambulation, postural correction and shoulder range of motion activities, should be added. Finally, it can be concluded that in the postoperative phase exercise training should be maintained, and adoption of healthy life-style behaviours must be encouraged.

Effects of inspiratory muscle exercise in the pulmonary function, autonomic modulation, and hemodynamic variables in older women with metabolic syndrome

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of inspiratory muscle exercise (IME) on metabolic and hemodynamic parameters, cardiac autonomic modulation and respiratory function of older women with metabolic syndrome (MS). For this, sixteen older women with MS and 12 aged-matched controls participated of the present study. Two days before and 2 days after the main experiment, fasting blood samples (i.e., total cholesterol, triglycerides and blood glucose), cardiac autonomic modulation (i.e., heart rate variability), and respiratory muscle function were obtained and evaluated. The sessions of physical exercise was based on a IME, which was performed during 7 days. Each session of IME was performed during 20 min, at 30% of maximal static inspiratory pressure. In the results, MS group presented higher levels of triglycerides, blood glucose, and systolic blood pressure when compared to control group. IME was not able to change these variables. However, although MS group showed impaired respiratory muscle strength and function, as well as cardiac autonomic modulation, IME was able to improve these parameters. Thus, the data showed that seven days of IME are capable to improve respiratory function and cardiac autonomic modulation of older women with MS. These results indicate that IME can be a profitable therapy to counteracting the clinical markers of MS, once repeated sessions of acute IME can cause chronical alterations on respiratory function and cardiac autonomic modulation.

Effect of endurance training on expiratory flow limitation and dynamic hyperinflation in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

BACKGROUND

Expiratory flow limitation (EFL) is the primary pathophysiological hallmark of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the effect of lower-extremity endurance training alone on EFL in patients with COPD remains largely unknown.

AIM

This study aims to determine the effects of endurance training on EFL and dynamic hyperinflation in patients with stable COPD.

METHODS

This was a prospective, single-blinded, non-randomised controlled 12-week study recruiting Chinese patients with stable COPD in an endurance training group (n = 15) or a control group (n = 13). Before and at the end of the study, we measured the EFL, pulmonary function, peak inspiratory flow (PIF) and maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP); moreover, the patients underwent a constant work rate exercise test in which Borg dyspnoea scale, tidal breathing flow volume curves and inspiratory capacity (IC) were determined every other minute.

RESULTS

Exercise training significantly improved the exercise endurance time (7.00 ± 3.05 vs 18.13 ± 6.44 min, P < 0.001), MIP (69.49 ± 16.03 vs 80.18 ± 15.97 cmH2 O, P < 0.001) and PIF (3.96 ± 1.01 vs 4.51 ± 1.13 L/s, P = 0.014), but not EFL (3.33 ± 0.49 vs 3.40 ± 0.51, P = 0.334). Subjects on training had decreased breathing frequency (26.26 ± 7.13 vs 23.15 ± 5.34 breaths/min, P = 0.002), minute ventilation (30.28 ± 7.52 vs 26.85 ± 4.17 L, P = 0.013), tidal peak expiratory flow (1.53 ± 0.22 vs 1.32 ± 0.20 L/s, P = 0.006), mean expiratory flow (0.87 ± 0.19 vs 0.68 ± 0.15 L/s, P = 0.011) and Borg dyspnoea score (7.20 ± 1.15 vs 3.93 ± 1.39, P < 0.001), as well as increased IC (1.50 ± 0.34 vs 1.67 ± 0.45 L, P = 0.002), expiratory time (1.47 ± 0.62 vs 1.72 ± 0.62 s, P = 0.004) and inspiratory flow reserve (2.05 ± 1.10 vs 2.95 ± 1.19 L/s, P = 0.002) at isotime. These changes were not observed in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Endurance training may benefit stable COPD patients in improving exercise endurance, inspiratory muscle strength, ventilatory requirements, exercise-induced hyperinflation and exertional dyspnoea.

Effects of controlled breathing exercises and respiratory muscle training in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: results from evaluating the quality of evidence in systematic reviews

Background

This paper reviews evidence and quality of Systematic Reviews (SRs) on the effects of breathing control exercises (BCEs) and respiratory muscle training (RMT) on breathlessness/dyspnea and other symptoms, and quality of life (QOL) for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

A search for BCE and RMT literature in COPD published between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2013 was performed in the following databases: PubMed, Ovid, CINAHL, PsycINFO, AMED, Cochrane and PEDro. The AMSTAR criteria were used to evaluate quality.

Results

After reviewing 642 reports, seven SRs were identified on RMT and BCEs. Three SRs were of high quality, three were of moderate quality, and one was of low quality. Two high-quality SRs reported significantly beneficial effects of RMT on dyspnea, and one reported significant effects on disease-specific QOL and fatigue. In these SRs, pooled data analyses were performed with three to fourteen single randomised control trials (RCTs) included in the analysis. In one of the SRs the quality of the single RCTs were rated by the authors to be between 5–7 (with10 best) and in the other one the quality of the single RCTs were rated to be between 30-83% of the maximum score.

One high-quality SR found a significant positive effect of BCE based on pooled data analysis with two single RCTs in regard to pursed-lip breathing (PLB) on breathlessness. In this SR, one single RCT on diaphragmatic breathing (DB) and another one on yoga breathing (YB) showed effect on disease-specific QOL. The single RCTs included in the SR were rated by the authors in the SRs to be of low and moderate quality.

Conclusions

Based on three high-quality SRs performing pooled data analyses, there is evidence that RMT has effect on breathlessness, fatigue and disease-specific QOL and PLB on breathlessness. There is also evidence that single studies on DB and YB has effect on disease-specific QOL. Few RCTs are available and the variable quality of the single RCTs in the SRs, seem to require more RCTs in particular for BCEs, but also RMT before conclusions regarding effects and high quality SRs can be written.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2466-14-184) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Leg muscle activation and distance setting of the leg cycle ergometer for use by the elderly

[Purpose] This study verified the leg muscle activities of elderly subjects performing leg cycle ergometer exercise. [Subjects] Forty-one elderly persons were the subjects of this study. [Methods] For the three distances corresponding to knee flexion angles of 15, 45, and 70, the muscle activities of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, tibialis anterior and lateral gastrocnemius were measured while the subjects exercised on a cycle ergometer. [Results] The rectus femoris and biceps femoris showed statistically significant increases as the distance between the cycle ergometer and the body increased, and the lateral gastrocnemius muscle activation showed a statistically significant increase as the distance from the body to the cycle ergometer decreased. [Conclusion] When the elderly have limb muscle weakness, leg cycle ergometer distances should be adjusted.

Lung hyperinflation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: mechanisms, clinical implications and treatment

Lung hyperinflation is highly prevalent in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and occurs across the continuum of the disease. A growing body of evidence suggests that lung hyperinflation contributes to dyspnea and activity limitation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is an important independent risk factor for mortality. In this review, we will summarize the recent literature on pathogenesis and clinical implications of lung hyperinflation. We will outline the contribution of lung hyperinflation to exercise limitation and discuss its impact on symptoms and physical activity. Finally, we will examine the physiological rationale and efficacy of selected pharmacological and non-pharmacological 'lung deflating' interventions aimed at improving symptoms and physical functioning.

Statins and the risk of liver injury: a population-based case-control study

OBJECTIVE

This case-control study investigated the association between statin use and liver injury using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database.

METHODS

Our study subjects included 4165 cases (patients who had been admitted with a primary diagnosis of liver injury between 2002 and 2009) and 16 660 age-matched, sex-matched and index date-matched controls. Multivariable conditional regression models were used to estimate the association between statin use and liver injury.

RESULTS

Users of statins were not associated with risk of liver injury (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.04; 95% confidence interval [0.90-1.19]) when compared with nonusers. Nevertheless, a higher dose of statin (≥1 defined daily dose; aOR 1.55 [1.14-2.11]) and use of rosuvastatin before event of liver injury (aOR 1.38 [1.03-1.85]) were significantly associated with liver injury.

CONCLUSIONS

This population-based study extends previous evidence by exploring the potential association between statins use and risk of liver injury. Overall, we found that statin was not associated with risk of liver injury. Nevertheless, special concern should be paid to those who used statin ≥1 defined daily dose and rosuvastatin.

Pulmonary fissure integrity and collateral ventilation in COPD patients

Purpose

To investigate whether the integrity (completeness) of pulmonary fissures affects pulmonary function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Materials and Methods

A dataset consisting of 573 CT exams acquired on different subjects was collected from a COPD study. According to the global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease (GOLD) criteria, these subjects (examinations) were classified into five different subgroups, namely non-COPD (222 subjects), GOLD-I (83 subjects), GOLD-II (141 subjects), GOLD-III (63 subjects), and GOLD-IV (64 subjects), in terms of disease severity. An available computer tool was used to aid in an objective and efficient quantification of fissure integrity. The correlations between fissure integrity, and pulmonary functions (e.g., FEV1, and FEV1/FVC) and COPD severity were assessed using Pearson and Spearman's correlation coefficients, respectively.

Results

For the five sub-groups ranging from non-COPD to GOLD-IV, the average integrities of the right oblique fissure (ROF) were 81.8%, 82.4%, 81.8%, 82.8%, and 80.2%, respectively; the average integrities of the right horizontal fissure (RHF) were 62.6%, 61.8%, 62.1%, 62.2%, and 62.3%, respectively; the average integrities of the left oblique fissure (LOF) were 82.0%, 83.2%, 81.7%, 82.0%, and 78.4%, respectively; and the average integrities of all fissures in the entire lung were 78.0%, 78.6%, 78.1%, 78.5%, and 76.4%, respectively. Their Pearson correlation coefficients with FEV1 and FE1/FVC range from 0.027 to 0.248 with p values larger than 0.05. Their Spearman correlation coefficients with COPD severity except GOLD-IV range from −0.013 to −0.073 with p values larger than 0.08.

Conclusion

There is no significant difference in fissure integrity for patients with different levels of disease severity, suggesting that the development of COPD does not change the completeness of pulmonary fissures and incomplete fissures alone may not contribute to the collateral ventilation.

Pathogenesis of hyperinflation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable lung disease characterized by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. In a significant proportion of patients with COPD, reduced lung elastic recoil combined with expiratory flow limitation leads to lung hyperinflation during the course of the disease. Development of hyperinflation during the course of COPD is insidious. Dynamic hyperinflation is highly prevalent in the advanced stages of COPD, and new evidence suggests that it also occurs in many patients with mild disease, independently of the presence of resting hyperinflation. Hyperinflation is clinically relevant for patients with COPD mainly because it contributes to dyspnea, exercise intolerance, skeletal muscle limitations, morbidity, and reduced physical activity levels associated with the disease. Various pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions have been shown to reduce hyperinflation and delay the onset of ventilatory limitation in patients with COPD. The aim of this review is to address the more recent literature regarding the pathogenesis, assessment, and management of both static and dynamic lung hyperinflation in patients with COPD. We also address the influence of biological sex and obesity and new developments in our understanding of hyperinflation in patients with mild COPD and its evolution during progression of the disease.