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Inspiratory muscle training and trunk control exercises on respiratory strength and motor function in spinal muscular atrophy: randomized controlled trial

Year: 2025

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a progressive neuromuscular disorder characterized by respiratory muscle weakness and impaired functional capacity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of respiratory exercises, inspiratory muscle training (IMT), and trunk control training in children with SMA. Thirty-eight children (10.21 ± 4.56 years) with SMA were randomly assigned to two groups. Pulmonary rehabilitation group (PRG, n = 19), performed diaphragmatic, pursed-lip, and segmental breathing exercises plus IMT at 30% maximal inspiratory pressure, twice daily for 8 weeks. Trunk control group (TCG, n = 19) received the same respiratory program with additional trunk exercises, three times a week. Primary outcomes were respiratory muscle strength (MIP, MEP), pulmonary function (FVC, FEV 1, PEF), and peak cough flow (PCF). Secondary outcomes were trunk control (TCMS), upper limb function (RULM), and motor performance (HFMSE). Both groups demonstrated significant within-group improvements in respiratory strength and motor outcomes ( p < 0.05). MIP increased with large effect sizes (PRG: d = 1.039; TCG: d = 1.556). Notably, TCG showed additional significant gains in static sitting balance ( p < 0.05), selective movement control ( p < 0.001), and RULM ( p < 0.05). Although between-group differences were not statistically significant, effect sizes indicated clinically relevant advantages favoring the combined intervention. Combining IMT with trunk control training appears safe, feasible, and clinically beneficial in children with SMA.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-32566-x

Authors: Görkem Ata, Ayşe Nur Tunalı Van Den Berg, Emre Dansuk, Seval Kutlutürk Yıkılmaz, Sedat Öktem

Institutions: Istanbul Medipol University, Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi

Language: English

Topic: Neurogenetic and Muscular Disorders Research

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690