Effect of respiratory muscle stretch gymnastics on exercise capacity in the elderly – A randomized control trial

Abstract

Background: Aging is associated with structural degeneration and functional limitations in the respiratory system, reducing exercise capacity. Respiratory muscle stretch gymnastics (RMSG) is used to improve the function of lungs and respiratory muscles with some success in various populations. Materials and Methods: Eighty-four individuals in the age group of 60–70 years were randomly allocated to the experimental and control group. Individuals in the experimental group were put on a 4-week RMSG supervised program. Distance covered in incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), and quality of life (QoL) were the outcome measures for the study. Results: There was an improvement in distance covered in ISWT, MIP, and scores of World Health Organization QoL-BREF (WHO QoL-BREF) questionnaire of subjects in the experimental group (P = 0.000) as compared to the control group. Conclusion: Prescription of RMSG for 4 weeks was beneficial in improving exercise performance, maximal inspiratory muscle strength, and QoL in elderly individuals.

Keywords

• geriatric
• incremental shuttle walk test
• maximal inspiratory pressure
• quality of life
• respiratory muscle strength