Clinical effects of respiratory muscle training in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to synthesize and critically analyze evidence from randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of RMT on functional improvement and other clinical outcomes in patients with COPD. Methods: An integrative review was conducted using the National Library of Medicine databases, including PubMed. Randomized controlled trials published between 2020 and 2024 were considered eligible. Results: Eight studies met the predefined inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. RMT was associated with significant improvements in inspiratory muscle strength, exercise tolerance, dyspnea, and health-related quality of life, both as a standalone intervention and when combined with other rehabilitation strategies. Although not all spirometric parameters demonstrated consistent changes across studies, most trials reported clinically relevant benefits in functional and patient-centered outcomes. Final considerations: RMT appears to be a safe, feasible, and potentially effective strategy in the rehabilitation of patients with COPD and may be considered an integral component of comprehensive therapeutic interventions.