Acute Effect of Trans-Spinal Direct Current Stimulation on Ventilatory Muscle Strength and Endurance in Young and Older Women.
Ellem Nara Tananta Dantas, Fernando Zanela da Silva Arêas, Elder Nascimento Pereira et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial assessed whether one session of trans-spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) affected inspiratory muscle strength and ventilatory endurance in healthy women aged 18–25 and 60–80 years. Participants received active or sham stimulation over the cervical region. Among older women receiving active stimulation, inspiratory strength measured by S-index improved significantly (P = .01; Cohen's D = 0.74). No significant changes were seen in young women, and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) did not differ between groups. The findings suggest an acute strength effect in older women, without evidence of improved ventilatory endurance.
Key findings
- In older women receiving active tsDCS, S-index improved significantly (P = .01; Cohen's D = 0.74).
- No significant S-index changes were observed in young women.
- Maximal voluntary ventilation did not differ between groups.
Why it matters
The results distinguish an acute change in inspiratory muscle strength from ventilatory endurance: stimulation was associated with improved strength in older women, but not with a difference in MVV. This may inform research into neuromodulation where age-related decline is relevant, while underscoring that a measured strength response does not establish broader functional benefit.
What to keep in mind
The study assessed only an acute session in healthy women; the abstract does not report sample size or longer-term outcomes.