It is well known that there is a broader link between oxygenation and numerous modulatory pathways at different levels explaining the relation between respiration and physical/cognitive performances. Thus, a respiratory training program could also have a similar effect to physical training on cognition. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effect of respiratory muscle training (RMT) on cognition and cognitive decline.
We conducted a systematic review of research up to April 2024 in Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, CENTRAL and Pedro We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical trials assessing the effect of RMT on cognitive function of different population. Methodological quality was assessed with the The PEDro scale (Physiotherapy Evidence Database). The study was registered in the PROSPERO database for systematic reviews (CRD42023389824).
Four studies were included in this systematic review. The two involved elderly population with increased blood pressure, one included post covid patients and one COPD patients. Most studies implemented an inspiratory muscle training program (IMT) alone. Three studies were assessed with the PEDro scale, reaching a moderate mean methodological quality. Cognition and cognitive decline were measured with different assessment tools. The National Institutes of Health(NIH) Toolbox Cognition Battery was used in two studies involving middle aged and older adults. Both studies used a high intensity protocol of IMT and only one with the hypertensive population reached statically significant difference between groups in episodic memory and proceeding speed. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) were also used. Although most studies showed a beneficial effect of IMT, they weren’t able to reach statistically significant difference between groups.
The implementation of respiratory muscle training programs seems promising in improving cognitive function and possible preventive dementia, especially in populations that have increased risk for cognitive decline. Further research is needed to confirm these preliminary findings and shade light into the physiological mechanisms that are involved.
Respiratory muscle training programs could have a preventive role in people with increased risk for cognitive decline.
respiratory muscle training
elderly
