Inspiratory Muscle Training

The respiratory pump is at the center of the ventilatory system and ensures supply and removal of respiratory gases. Proper functioning of the pump depends on a delicate balance between its capacity and the load exerted on it. Impairments in diaphragmatic and non-diaphragmatic inspiratory muscle function can distort this balance and can lead to an overloading of the pump. In the context of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) the respiratory muscles are of key importance during physical exertion. Increasing ventilatory needs by performing physical exercises or daily activities acutely increase the load on the respiratory muscles. The resulting load-capacity imbalance can contribute to symptoms of exertional dyspnea and exercise limitation. Respiratory muscle dysfunction is observed in many candidates for PR. The benefits of respiratory rehabilitation programs in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are well established. PR leads to statistically significant and clinically relevant improvements in exercise tolerance and health-related quality of life. The role of training the respiratory muscles in respiratory rehabilitation remains however still controversial after more than 40 years of research.status: publishe