Effects of pulmonary rehabilitation combined with inspiratory muscle training on lung function and exercise capacity in older patients with COPD: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pulmonary rehabilitation is central to COPD management, with inspiratory muscle training (IMT) as a key component. However, evidence is inconsistent on whether combining PR with IMT offers added benefits for older COPD patients.

Objective

To evaluate the comparative effects of PR combined with IMT versus PR alone on key outcomes in older COPD patients, including quality of life [St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ)], exercise tolerance [6-min walk distance (6MWD)], respiratory muscle strength [maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax)], and pulmonary function metrics (FEV₁, FEV₁%).

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library (January 2005-January 2025) identified randomized controlled tri

SUBMITTER: Xie J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12285735 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature