Inspiratory Muscle Training

Abstract

Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is a technique that aims to improve the function of the inspiratory muscles. Because inspiratory muscle dysfunction is closely related to dyspnea, which is the most salient exercise-limiting symptom of patients with chronic lung diseases, IMT has been thought to be able to reduce dyspnea and increase the functional capacity of the patients. IMT was initially examined for its effectiveness mainly on patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, then its application has gradually been expanded to various disorders which could cause dyspnea. This review will summarize the current evidence of IMT in patients with various disorders, then describe how IMT is applied in clinical settings.