Effects of different inspiratory muscle training protocols on exercise capacity and respiratory muscle strength in heart failure patients with pacemaker

Abstract

Introduction: Studies widely investigated the effects of inspiratory muscle strength training in heart failure (HF) patients. No study compared the effects of inspiratory muscle strength or endurance training in patients with pacemaker. Aims: To investigate the effects of inspiratory muscle strength or endurance training on exercise capacity, quality of life, peripheral muscle strength, respiratory (MIP, MEP) muscle strength and endurance, pulmonary function and dyspnea in HF patients with pacemaker. Methods: Sixteen patients received inspiratory strength training at 50% of MIP, 20 patients received endurance training at 30% of MIP 7days/8 weeks. Functional exercise capacity [6-min.walking test (6-MWT)], incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT)], pulmonary function (spirometry), respiratory muscle strength (mouth pressure device) and endurance (threshold loading), peripheral muscle strength (dynamometer), dyspnea (Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (MMRC) and quality of life [Minnesota Living with Heart Failure (MLHFQ), SF-36 questionnaires] were evaluated before and after. Results: There were statistically significantly improvements were present in MIP, MEP, respiratory muscle endurance, peripheral muscle strength, 6-MWT and ISWT walking distances, MMRC, MLHFQ and SF-36 Scales within groups however there were no significant differences between groups (p≥0,05). Conclusions: Inspiratory muscle strength or endurance training similarly improves respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, exercise capacity, quality of life and decreases dyspnea and are safe, effective in HF patients with pacemakers.