A novel respiratory muscle trainer to enhance pulmonary strength in wheelchair athletes: a pilot randomized controlled study

Introduction:
Athletes using Wheelchairs have challenges related to respiratory function due to high physical demands of sport and limitations in core muscle engagement. This study introduced a newly developed Respiratory Muscle Trainer (RMT) device designed to Strengthen respiratory muscles that enhance endurance and overall performance, for this population. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of RMT to improve sports performance athletes with wheelchairs.

Material and methods:
A pilot randomized controlled trial study was conducted among wheelchair athletes. 12 participants were divided into an intervention group (n=6) using the respiratory muscle trainer and a control group (n=6) performing conventional training for 4 weeks. The RMT device provided adjustable resistance for both inspiration and expiration, promoting progressive overload training. Maximal Inspiratory Pressure, Maximal expiratory pressure, Forced vital capacity (FVC) and Forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1) were the outcomes of this study.

Results:
Participants of intervention group showed significant improvements in MIP (from 62.3 ± 12.4 to 75.6 ± 10.8 cmH2O) and MEP (from 78.5 ± 15.2 to 90.2 ± 12.7 cmH2O) compared to control group (p<0.05). Pulmonary function parameters including FVC, and FEV1 (mean differences of 0.2 L and 0.3 L), reflect improvements in pulmonary function. Additionally, functional performance measures such as changes in wheelchair propulsion efficiency and endurance represent functional outcomes related to cardiovascular and muscular performance during sport-specific tasks.

Conclusions:
RMT device was effective in improving respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity in athletes with wheelchairs. Incorporating this device into training regimens may enhance performance and respiratory efficiency, contributing to better competitive outcomes.