Effects of inspiratory muscle training on inspiratory muscle strength and exercise tolerance in patients with COPD: a meta-analysis and systematic review - Report - MDSpire

Effects of inspiratory muscle training on inspiratory muscle strength and exercise tolerance in patients with COPD: a meta-analysis and systematic review

  • By

  • Lei Xu

  • Qi Liao

  • June 29, 2026

  • 0 min

Share

Clinical Report: Impact of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Strength and Exercise Capacity in COPD Patients

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on inspiratory muscle strength, exercise tolerance, and dyspnea in COPD patients.

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent respiratory condition that leads to significant morbidity and impaired quality of life. Effective non-pharmacological interventions, such as inspiratory muscle training, are essential for managing symptoms in COPD patients.

Data Highlights

OutcomeEffect Size (SMD)95% Confidence Intervalp-value
PImax1.230.12–2.340.034
6MWD0.430.09–0.770.018
Dyspnea0.33−0.11–0.770.129
FEV₁0.14 L−0.17–0.440.190

Key Findings

  • IMT significantly improved PImax (SMD = 1.23, p = 0.034).
  • IMT also significantly enhanced 6MWD (SMD = 0.43, p = 0.018).
  • Statistical significance for 6MWD was observed only in sham-controlled trials.
  • No significant improvement in dyspnea was found (SMD = 0.33, p = 0.129).
  • FEV₁ did not show significant changes (MD = 0.14 L, p = 0.190).
  • Comparator type explained 37.8% of the heterogeneity in 6MWD outcomes.

Clinical Implications

The effectiveness of IMT appears to be influenced by the type of comparator used in studies.

Conclusion

IMT can enhance inspiratory muscle strength and exercise tolerance in COPD patients, with varying efficacy depending on the comparator type.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Medicine, 2026 -- Effects of inspiratory muscle training on inspiratory muscle strength and exercise tolerance in patients with COPD: a meta-analysis and systematic review
  2. 2026 GOLD Report and Pocket Guide - Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease - GOLD
  3. Frontiers in Medicine — Comparative efficacy of single exercise interventions on pulmonary function and quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
  4. Frontiers in Medicine — Comparative efficacy of different types of structured exercise interventions for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  5. Frontiers in Medicine — Effectiveness of traditional Chinese Medicine Breathing-Daoyin Rehabilitation Techniques on lung function and exercise endurance in COPD: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  6. Intensive Care Medicine — Understanding Expiratory Muscle Dysfunction in Critically Ill Patients: A Comprehensive Review
  7. 2026 GOLD Report and Pocket Guide - Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease - GOLD
  8. Frontiers | Effects of inspiratory muscle training on inspiratory muscle strength and exercise tolerance in patients with COPD: a meta-analysis and systematic review
  9. Long-Term Efficacy of Novel and Traditional Home-Based, Remote Inspiratory Muscle Training in COPD: A Randomized Controlled Trial - PMC

Original Source(s)

Related Content