The Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training in People With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF WEST ATTICA · Aug 15, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether a special breathing exercise called Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) can help people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the food pipe and causes discomfort. The study compares two groups: one doing the real breathing exercises and the other doing a fake version (sham) to see if the real exercises make a difference in symptoms and quality of life.

People who might join the trial are adults diagnosed with GERD or those who have noticeable symptoms based on a questionnaire. Participants will be asked to do the breathing exercises for three months, with assessments before starting, right after finishing, and again six months later to see how well the treatment works over time. The study will measure breathing strength and how often reflux symptoms happen, as well as how GERD affects daily life. Certain people, such as those with specific health conditions or who are pregnant, won’t be able to join. If you have GERD and are interested in trying a non-drug approach to manage symptoms, this study might be an option to consider.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • Inclusion Criteria: people diagnosed with GERD or had a score of more than 8 on the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Questionnaire
• • Exclusion Criteria: systemic connective tissue diseases, mental disorders, stomach or duodenal surgery, tuberculosis, pregnancy