Relationship between dynamic inspiratory pressure and functional capacity in kidney transplant recipients: a pilot study

<bold>Introduction:</bold> Inspiratory muscle strength is a predictor of functional capacity. Although inspiratory muscle function improves after kidney transplantation, it still remains below normal limits. However, information on inspiratory muscle strength and functional capacity in post-kidney transplant patients is limited. The aim was to investigate the relationship between inspiratory pressure, peripheral muscle strength, and functional capacity in kidney transplant recipients. <bold>Methods:</bold> Twenty-one kidney transplant recipients (44.76±7.72 years, 17M/ 4F) were included. Static maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), dynamic maximum inspiratory pressure (S-Index), and quadriceps femoris muscle strength (QMS) were measured. Functional capacity was evaluated using a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. <bold>Results:</bold> The S-Index was correlated with 6MWT distance (r=0.667, p=0.001), QMS (r=0.461, p=0.036) and TUG time (r=-0.672, p=0.001). <bold>Conclusions:</bold> According to this study, kidney transplant recipients with strong dynamic inspiratory muscular strength may also have greater functional capacity and muscle strength. On the other hand, dynamic assessment of inspiratory function may be more appropriate for obtaining information about functional capacity and muscle strength than static assessment in this group of patients.