The Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Respiratory Parameters, Trunk Control, Gait, and Functional Independence in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Pediatr NeurolJul 22, 2026 (epub)
Hamdi Berat Cil, Gamze Aydin
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the impact of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on respiratory parameters, trunk control, gait, and functional independence in 36 children with cerebral palsy (mean age 7.89 years). The study found that IMT significantly improved maximum inspiratory pressure and forced expiratory volume compared to sham IMT, with P-values of 0.009 and 0.023, respectively.
Key findings
- IMT significantly improved maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) compared to sham IMT (P < 0.001).
- Forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV 1) was significantly higher in the IMT group (P = 0.023).
- No significant differences were found in gait speed or functional independence between groups (P > 0.05).
- Trunk control improved significantly within the IMT group (P < 0.001) after adjusting for baseline differences.
Why it matters
Improving respiratory function in children with cerebral palsy can enhance overall health and potentially reduce complications associated with respiratory weakness. This study suggests that incorporating IMT may be beneficial in rehabilitation programs.