A Review on Respiratory Muscle Training Devices

Abstract

Background and aim: There are currently many devices on the market, which have been used for training of the respiratory muscles. The knowledge of these devices may help professionals to carefully select the best one to be used. However, due to the numerous available devices available, this selection represents a challenge. Although previous studies have attempted to describe all respiratory muscle training devices, important ones with proven efficacy were not included. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to describe the mechanisms and characteristics of all available respiratory muscle training devices, and discuss their merits and limitations. Methods: Searches were conducted in databases, books, website selling products related to rehabilitation, and reference lists of the retrieved papers. Results: The present review included 14 devices currently available on the market and reported by published studies. However, three could not be described in details, due to lack of information. Amongst the 11 evaluated devices, all of them showed positive aspects and limitations that should be considered. Conclusion: Although some devices appear to be more advantageous than others, it is not possible to choose the best one, based only upon their technical information and clinical utility. To select the most appropriate one, it is also necessary to consider the specific health condition, the nature of the impairments, the purpose of the training, and whether it is for use within research or clinical contexts.