Determining the outcome measures and clinical relevance of respiratory muscle training with multiple sclerosis patients: a systematic review

Abstract

The following systematic review aimed to gather information on the effectiveness of Respiratory Muscle Training (RMT) with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. The method followed the ENTREQ and PRISMA protocol. MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Science Direct databases were used to source relevant literature. Articles included participants diagnosed with MS in randomized, controlled trial studies with objectively measured outcomes, and RMT methods were standardized. Eleven students were included in the results (n = 396, 50.5 ± 9.8 years, 68% F 31% M) and show that RMT (minimum 8 weeks of training) is effective in improving respiratory muscle strength (MIP in 7 out of 9 studies, MEP in 6 out of 11 studies and FVC in 6 out of 7 studies) and health-related outcomes, including mobility. Although muscle strength increased, increases in FVC had moderate effects on functional ability, which were negligible, and patient-reported fatigue. Findings suggest that muscle strength increases were predominantly in inspiratory muscles, and expiratory results were combined. However, the review shows a lack of research concerning the use of RMT and its prescription for MS patients.