Expiratory Muscle Training in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Effects of Expiratory Muscle Training on Posture, Balance, Trunk Control, and Respiratory Function in Children With Cerebral Palsy

This study aims to examine the effects of expiratory muscle training on posture, trunk control, balance, selective motor control, and respiratory function in children with spastic-type cerebral palsy (CP). The research focuses on evaluating an innovative rehabilitation approach that addresses common challenges observed in children with CP, such as trunk instability, reduced respiratory capacity, and postural abnormalities.

In individuals with CP, the ineffective use of respiratory muscles affects not only the respiratory system but also trunk control and overall motor performance. While most existing studies emphasize inspiratory muscle training, research on expiratory muscle training remains limited. Therefore, this study seeks to fill this gap by investigating the neuromotor effects of expiratory muscle training-an emerging component of respiratory rehabilitation-in children with CP.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of cerebral palsy
• Age between 12 and 18 years
• Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) Level I or II
• Communication Function Classification System (CFCS) Level I, II, or III
• Spasticity graded as 0, 1, 1+, or 2 on the Modified Ashworth Scale
• No history of Botulinum Toxin-A injection or orthopedic surgery within the past 6 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Spasticity graded as 3 or 4 on the Modified Ashworth Scale Uncontrolled seizures
• Presence of congenital cardiopulmonary disease, autism spectrum disorder, balance-impairing conditions, or significant visual/hearing impairments
• Acute respiratory tract infection