Eight-week high-intensity inspiratory muscle training improves cardiac autonomic function in COPD: a randomized controlled trial.
Pairoj Suraprapapich, Wattana B Watanapa, Sauwaluk Dacha et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of eight weeks of high-intensity inspiratory muscle training on cardiac autonomic function in 39 stable COPD patients. The training led to significant improvements in cardiac parasympathetic activity, with the high-frequency component of heart rate variability increasing from 36.99% to 46.84% (p < 0.01), alongside enhanced functional capacity and health status.
Key findings
- Maximal inspiratory pressure increased by 22.46 ± 15.71 cmH2O (p < 0.001).
- High-frequency component of HRV rose from 36.99% to 46.84% (p < 0.01).
- Six-minute walk distance improved from 347.47 ± 82.72 to 378.71 ± 80.09 m (p < 0.01).
- Sympathetic index decreased from 54.13% to 40.73% (p < 0.001).
Why it matters
Improving cardiac autonomic function in COPD patients can enhance overall health outcomes and functional capacity. This study suggests that high-intensity inspiratory muscle training may be a beneficial intervention for managing cardiovascular aspects of COPD.