Respiratory muscle training improves lung function in patients with stroke

This study reviewed the effects of respiratory (breathing) muscle training (RMT) in the recovery of stroke survivors. Researchers suggested that RMT improved lung function and reduced the risk of lung complications in these patients.

Around 2 million people in China experience a stroke every year. 70 to 80% of the cases experience stroke-induced disability. Breathing disorder increases by 2 to 6 times the death rate in stroke survivors. After a stroke, some patients suffer from weakened breathing muscle which can cause tiredness, cough, and swallowing problems. The risk of lung infection is also higher in these patients. The inability to breathe properly negatively affects daily activities such as walking.

RMT consists of a training program that exercises the breathing muscles by inducing forceful respiration. Prior studies suggested that RMT after stroke improves the outcomes of these disorders. However, these investigations showed limitations in the studies included.

This study reviewed 9 other studies with information about 308 stroke survivors with a breathing disorder. These patients underwent RMT for 12 weeks.

The best breathing capacity was achieved at the 12-week follow-up period. RMT was also associated with improved walking capacity. RMT was associated with a 45% improvement in the odds of a decrease in breathing complications.  

This study concluded that RMT is associated with improved breathing outcomes in stroke survivors. 

The studies analyzed had different protocols. This makes it difficult to compare results. Also, the follow-up period was rather short. Large controlled studies are needed.