Inspiratory Muscle Training After Stroke

Objective: To investigate and compare the efficacy of a 6-week, supervised respiratory training program using the AiroFit PRO™ mobile respiratory trainer against traditional Pursed-Lips Breathing exercises in individuals with hemiplegia. Study Design: A single-blind, two-arm, randomized controlled trial. Participants: Ambulatory adults with stable hemiplegia (≥3 months post-stroke), who are medically stable and able to follow commands. Interventions: Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: Experimental Group: Will perform Inspiratory Muscle Training using the AiroFit PRO™ device for 15 minutes/day, 5 days/week, for 6 weeks. The intensity will be progressively increased. Active Control Group: Will perform Pursed-Lips Breathing exercises for an identical duration and frequency. Primary Outcomes: Changes in pulmonary function tests, including Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), and Maximal Inspiratory Pressure (MIP). Significance: This study will provide high-level evidence on the utility of smart, device-guided respiratory training as a novel component of neurorehabilitation, potentially offering a more effective strategy to improve respiratory health and overall recovery in hemiplegic patients compared to standard breathing exercises.