Effectiveness of Therapeutic Exercise Combined With Respiratory Muscle Training in Patients With Subacute Stroke

Launched by ANA LISTA PAZ · Apr 21, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a special exercise program that combines physical exercise with training for the muscles we use to breathe in patients who have had a stroke. The focus is on people who are in the subacute phase after their first stroke, which means they are between three and six months post-stroke. The goal is to see if this combined program can improve their ability to function, breathe, swallow, speak, and overall quality of life compared to those who only do the exercise without the breathing training.

To participate, individuals must be at least 18 years old, able to walk at least 10 meters with or without help, and have had their first stroke within the specified timeframe. However, those with a history of recurrent strokes, chronic respiratory diseases, or other significant health issues may not be eligible. Participants can expect to engage in a tailored exercise program three times a week for eight weeks, with additional breathing training five days a week. The study will also track their progress over time to see how well they improve in various areas related to their recovery.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • Inclusion Criteria
• • Those diagnosed with a first stroke occurring three to six months after the onset (subacute phase).
• • Those aged 18 years or older.
• • Those able to walk at least 10 meters, with or without walking aids and/or physical assistance from another person.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Those with recurrent stroke.
• • Those with a history of chronic respiratory disease.
• • Those with other underlying neurological diseases with impaired functionality prior to the stroke.
• • Those with other cardiovascular or metabolic diseases in an unstable phase.
• • Those with severe cognitive deficits that impede understanding of the assessment tests and/or the intervention.
• • Those with severe facial paralysis that impedes proper performance of pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength tests.
• • Those with a prior participation in a RMT program.
• • Those who participate in a cardiovascular and/or strength-endurance training program at the time of the study.
• • Those with any of the contraindications to performing the tests included in the study protocol: spirometry, respiratory muscle strength and endurance tests, and 6MWT.
• • Those with any of the contraindications to physical exercise.