EFFECTIVENESS OF INSPIRATORY MUSCLE TRAINING IN IMPROVING INSPIRATORY MUSCLE STRENGTH, EXERCISE CAPACITY, AND MANAGING ASTHMA SYMPTOMS IN ADULTSV

Abstract

This systematic review is aim to examine the efficacy of Inspiratory Muscle Training in enhancing inspiratory muscle strength and exercise endurance among adults diagnosed with asthma. Furthermore, secondary objectives involve evaluating the impact of IMT on various aspects such as asthma symptoms and control, lung function, use of rescue medication, and health-related quality of life . A thorough search was conducted across various electronic databases such as CINAHL (via EBSCO), Medline (via OVID), Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library, resulting in the identification of 7 RCTs deemed relevant for inclusion. Following critical appraisal by two independent reviewers, the 7 RCTs were selected for data extraction. Owing to the clinical variability among the studies included, a narrative synthesis was performed. The RCTs included in this review revealed that IMT programme led to a substantial increase in inspiratory muscle strength across all studies (p < 0.005) and exercise capacity (p < 0.001). Additionally, IMT was found to have a positive impact on asthma symptoms, resulting in a significant reduction in medication use (p < 0.001) and perceived dyspnea. No significant changes in lung function were observed. Furthermore, IMT exhibited the potential to enhance inspiratory muscle endurance and improve QoL in the long term.