# Effects of Trunk Extension-Based Inspiratory Muscle Strengthening on Respiratory Function, Balance, and Gait in Patients with Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial

## TL;DR

This study found that a specific breathing exercise involving trunk extension improves lung function, balance, and walking ability in stroke patients more than traditional methods.

## Contribution

The study introduces trunk extension-based inspiratory muscle training as a novel rehabilitation method for stroke patients.

## Key findings

- Patients in the study group showed significant improvements in respiratory parameters like MIP, MIFR, MIV, PEF, and FEV1.
- The study group also demonstrated better balance and gait outcomes compared to the control group.
- Trunk extension-based training was more effective than conventional inspiratory muscle training in stroke rehabilitation.

## Abstract

Objectives: This study investigated the effects of trunk extension-based inspiratory muscle strengthening on respiratory function, balance, and gait in patients with stroke. Methods: Thirty stroke patients were randomly assigned to the study group (n = 15) or control group (n = 15). The study group performed inspiratory muscle strengthening exercises in a trunk extension posture, while the control group received conventional inspiratory muscle training. Both groups trained five times per week for six weeks. Outcome measures included maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal inspiratory flow rate (MIFR), maximal inspiratory volume (MIV), peak expiratory flow (PEF), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), weight distribution ratio (WDR), limits of stability (LOSs), Timed Up and Go (TUG), gait velocity, cadence, and stride length. Results: The study group showed significantly greater improvements in respiratory parameters (MIP, MIFR, MIV, PEF, FEV1) and functional outcomes (WDR, LOS, BBS, TUG, gait velocity, cadence, stride length) compared to the control group. Conclusions: Trunk extension-based inspiratory muscle strengthening effectively improves respiratory function, balance, and gait in stroke patients, and may serve as a valuable addition to stroke rehabilitation programs.