Effects of inspiratory muscle training on upper and lower extremity functional exercise capacity, muscle oxygen, and cough strength in patients with Parkinson’s disease

IMST improved upper and lower extremity exercise capacity, muscle oxygenation, cough strength, and autonomic function, while lowering fatigue and dyspnea in PD. Improved oxygenation may help patients tolerate higher workloads, aiding endurance and functional gains. These findings support the addition of IMST to rehabilitation programs for improved pulmonary, cardiac, and functional capacity. Increased cough strength may lower the risks of aspiration, pneumonia, and mortality - this requires further investigation. ClinicalTrials number: NCT06017336.