Assessing the Role of Inspiratory Muscle Training in Enhancing Respiratory Function among Adults with COPD

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition characterised by persistent airflow limitation, dyspnoea and reduced functional capacity. Inspiratory muscle dysfunction, particularly weakness of the diaphragm, plays a significant role in symptom burden and reduced quality of life among individuals with COPD. Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) has been proposed as a targeted, non-pharmacological intervention to strengthen inspiratory muscles and improve respiratory and functional outcomes; however, variability in training protocols and outcome measures has limited its consistent implementation within pulmonary rehabilitation. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines using the PEO (Population, Exposure, Outcome) framework. Electronic searches were performed across PubMed, ProQuest and PEDro databases to identify peer-reviewed quantitative studies published between 2015 and 2025. Studies involving adults diagnosed with COPD who received IMT as a standalone or adjunct intervention were included. Outcome measures included maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), dyspnoea, lung function parameters and functional capacity assessed using the six-minute walk test (6MWT). Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and were critically appraised using Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tools. Results: Across the included studies, IMT consistently resulted in significant improvements in inspiratory muscle strength, as evidenced by increased MIP. Reductions in dyspnoea and clinically meaningful improvements in functional capacity, particularly 6MWT distance, were also observed. Greater benefits were reported when IMT was integrated with pulmonary rehabilitation or exercise-based interventions. Technologically enhanced and biofeedback supported IMT demonstrated improved adherence and additional psychosocial benefits. Changes in spirometric lung function outcomes were variable. Conclusion: The findings of this systematic review indicate that Inspiratory Muscle Training is an effective adjunctive intervention for improving inspiratory muscle strength, reducing dyspnoea and enhancing functional capacity in adults with COPD. Incorporating IMT into pulmonary rehabilitation programmes may optimise patient outcomes. Further high-quality research is required to establish standardised training protocols and to evaluate long-term clinical and psychosocial outcomes.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

msc

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• Kalsariya, Gautambhai Kababhai

• RC Meddygaeth fewnol

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:4216