Effect of functional inspiratory muscle training in chronic kidney disease

<bold>Introduction:</bold> In the early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), respiratory and muscle functions may be affected. Due to multiple losses, multi-function training may benefit. No trials are available evaluating effectiveness of different inspiratory muscle training (IMT) methods in non-dialysis CKD. The aim was to compare effects of different IMT modalities applied with telerehabilitation on respiratory, peripheral, and trunk muscle functions in non-dialysis CKD. <bold>Methods:</bold> A total of 38 patients were included, and patients were randomized into three groups: fundamental IMT (n=13), functional IMT (n=13), and control (n=12). Respiratory muscle strength and endurance, peripheral muscle strength, trunk muscle endurance (partial sit-ups, prone bridge, side bridge, pelvic bridge tests) were assessed. The program was conducted out 3 days a week with a physiotherapist and 3 days individually for 10 weeks. <bold>Results:</bold> There was a statistically significant difference between fundamental IMT, functional IMT and control groups in maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure, respiratory muscle endurance, hand grip and knee extensor strength and trunk endurance times (p<0.05). The improvements in respiratory muscle endurance and peripheral and trunk muscle function were statistically significantly greater in functional IMT compared to fundamental IMT (p<0.017). <bold>Conclusions:</bold> The fundamental and functional IMT significantly improves respiratory, peripheral, and trunk muscle functions of non-dialysis CKD patients. More improvements in respiratory muscle endurance, peripheral and trunk muscle function were seen with functional IMT. Because of its positive effects on many functions, we recommend functional IMT for this patients.