Effects of Expiratory Muscle Training in Children With Asthma: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Effects of Expiratory Muscle Training in Children With Asthma: A Randomised Controlled Trial

The goal of this randomized clinical trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of expiratory muscle training (EMT) as an adjunct to conventional chest physiotherapy in children with asthma. Respiratory muscle training has been shown to improve muscle strength, functional capacity, and symptom control in adults with asthma, but evidence in pediatric populations is limited, particularly regarding expiratory training. This study aims to determine whether adding EMT to standard physiotherapy enhances pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength, asthma control, and functional capacity compared to chest physiotherapy alone. The main questions are: (1) Does EMT improve expiratory muscle strength and pulmonary function in children with asthma? (2) Does EMT contribute to better asthma control and overall physical performance? Participants will be randomly assigned to either conventional chest physiotherapy or chest physiotherapy plus EMT. Interventions will be delivered as a home-based, low-cost, feasible program, with training protocols standardized in terms of intensity, frequency, and duration.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 8 and 18 years Clinically diagnosed with asthma Ability to walk, cooperate, and be clinically stable Willingness to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of hospitalization within the last 4 weeks prior to enrollment Hospitalization during the exercise training program Presence of secondary conditions that may affect respiratory function (e.g., kyphoscoliosis) Currently participating in or having participated in a regular exercise training program within the past year