Effects of Home-based Inspiratory Muscle Training in Patients With IPF

Effects of Home-based Inspiratory Muscle Training in Patients With Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the home-based inspiratory muscle training program on lung functions, dyspnea, inspiratory muscle strength, functional capacity and quality of life in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Patients are evaluated before the inspiratory muscle training and after 8 weeks of training.

The IMT protocol consisted of home-based high-intensity daily training - two cycles of 30 breaths with a 1-min rest between sets, twice a day for 8 weeks using an IMT Threshold device (Threshold IMT Philips® Respironics, Inc). The intensity of the training was set to 50% of each patient's maximal inspiratory pressure measured every week and was adjusted weekly based on the modified Borg scale from 4 to 6 regarding respiratory effort performed during the session. Patients are evaluated before the inspiratory muscle training and after 8 weeks of training.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosing Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis by a pulmonologist;
• Aged between 40 and 75 years;
• Volunteering to research;
• Stable clinical condition (same medication routine and/or no acute exacerbation in the last for the last 4 weeks).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability of the participant to understand or perform the procedures proposed during the evaluations or training program.
• Participating in any pulmonary rehabilitation programs;
• A previous pneumonectomy or lobectomy operation;
• Pneumonia in the last 4 weeks;
• Any pulmonary infection during the study;
• Requirement for supplemental oxygen therapy while resting.
• Having Covid-19 disease (during the study or in the past)
• Orthopaedic or neurological conditions affecting the ability to independent walking