Effects of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Respiratory Strength and Functional Capacity in Post-operative Patients with Scoliosis during Maximum Protection Phase

Background: Scoliosis is a three-dimensional spinal deformity that compromises respiratory and functional capacities. Post-operative rehabilitation strategies are vital to mitigate these impairments, with inspiratory muscle training emerging as a promising intervention. Objective: To evaluate the effects of inspiratory muscle training on respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity in postoperative patients with scoliosis. Methodology: The ethical review board of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences at the Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences approved this study. This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 50 participants aged 10 to 18 years. Patients having neurological and rheumatological disorders, cardiac or respiratory diseases, and individuals with any other orthopedic problem affecting the previous surgical intervention were excluded. Participants were divided into two groups: an experimental group receiving inspiratory muscle training combined with standardized exercises and a control group receiving standardized exercises alone. Inspiratory muscle training was performed using a spirometer at 30% of the Maximum Inspiratory Pressure value for 15 minutes twice daily, six days a week, for eight weeks. Outcomes were measured using spirometry and the six-minute walk test. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to evaluate the normal distribution of data. Paired t-test and Mann-Whitney U test were applied for between-group and within-group differences. Results: The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in respiratory strength and functional capacity compared to the control group. The mean vital capacity improved from 4L to 4.11L in the experimental group, with a standard deviation of 0.29L. The six-minute walk distance increased from a mean of 412m to 435.6m, indicating a notable enhancement in functional capacity. Inspiratory muscle training enhanced pulmonary efficiency, cardiovascular workload, and physical endurance in post-operative scoliosis patients. Conclusion: Inspiratory muscle training effectively improves respiratory strength and functional outcomes in post-operative scoliosis patients, underscoring its value in rehabilitation programs. These findings support integrating inspiratory muscle training into routine post-surgical care for enhanced recovery and quality of life.