Restricted accessResearch articleFirst published online 2026
Effect Of Inspiratory Muscle Traınıng on Diaphragm Functıon and Activıty Performance in Subacute Ischemıc Stroke Patıents: A Sıngle-Blind Randomized-Controlled Trial
Respiratory dysfunction is common after stroke and may negatively affect functional recovery. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been proposed to enhance diaphragmatic function and activity performance in this population.
Objective:
To investigate the effects of IMT on diaphragm function and activity performance in patients with subacute ischemic stroke. Methods: In this randomized controlled, single-blind trial, 26 patients with subacute ischemic stroke (>1 month post-onset) were randomly allocated to an intervention group (IG, n = 13) or control group (CG, n = 13). Both groups received standard neurorehabilitation, aerobic training, and the Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT). The IG additionally underwent IMT, 5 days per week for 6 weeks (30 sessions). Assessments included maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP, MEP), diaphragmatic thickness (Ti, Te) and excursion via ultrasonography, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM).
Results:
Twenty-two participants completed the study (IG = 11; CG = 11). Significant within-group improvements were observed in both groups for MIP, MEP, Ti, TF, excursion, 6MWT, and COPM scores (P < .05). Between-group analyses showed significantly greater improvements in the IG for ΔMIP (P < .001), ΔMEP (P = .003), affected-side ΔTi (P = .007), ΔTF (P = .008), and Δexcursion (P = .005). No significant differences were found for 6MWT and COPM (P > .05).
Conclusions:
IMT effectively improves respiratory muscle strength, diaphragmatic thickness, and excursion in subacute ischemic stroke and may be a valuable addition to post-stroke rehabilitation programs.
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