by 
What is Respiratory Training?
Respiratory training refers to a set of breathing exercises that aim to strengthen the respiratory muscles and improve lung functions. These exercises are usually performed with the help of respiratory trainers – devices that provide resistance during inhalation and exhalation, making breathing exercises more effective.
Types of Respiratory Trainers
There are different types of respiratory trainers available in the market depending on the level of resistance they provide:
Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) Devices
PEP devices provide resistance during exhalation by using one-way valves that do not allow easy exhalation. Commonly used PEP devices include flutter valves, PEP masks and wheelchair PEP valves. The increased resistance results in slower and deeper breaths that help improve mucus clearance.
Incentive Spirometers
Incentive spirometers, such as threshold inspirometers, encourage taking deep breaths through visual feedback systems. As breaths deepen, a ball or indicator rises within the chamber. This helps patients focus on proper breathing techniques.
Resistance Valves
Resistance valves offer adjustable resistance levels during both inhalation and exhalation. Tuning the resistance level makes these devices suitable for individuals at various functional levels.
Breathing Bags/Bottles
Breathing bags provide resistance through their compressible design. Squeezing and releasing the bag simulates the breathing cycle. Using different sized bags alters the resistance level.
Benefits of Using Respiratory Trainers
Regular respiratory training with the help of such devices provides several benefits:
Improved Lung Capacity
By forcing slower, deeper breaths and better exhalation, respiratory muscles are effectively exercised. This leads to an expansion of the lungs over time, improving both inspiratory and expiratory lung volumes.
Enhanced Mucus Clearance
The extra resistance during exhalation helps liquefy and thin secretions in the lungs and airways. This allows for easier expulsion of mucus to reduce infections.
Prevention of Atelectasis
Atelectasis refers to the collapse of alveoli air sacs in the lungs. Deep breathing exercises counter atelectasis by reinflating these air sacs more effectively.
Improved Exercise Tolerance
With enhanced lung function, more oxygen can be delivered to working muscles during physical activity. This boosts endurance and the ability to perform daily tasks.
Who Benefits from Respiratory Training?
Several conditions may benefit from incorporating respiratory trainers into treatment plans:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
For diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, breathing exercises are crucial to maintain functionality. Respiratory trainers augment standard inhaler therapy.
Cystic Fibrosis
The mucus-thickening effects of cystic fibrosis make airway clearance very important. Respiratory trainers help liquefy secretions and reduce flare-ups.
Pre- and Post-surgery Recovery
After lung surgeries, trainers encourage deep breathing to prevent infections and speed healing. They also benefit pre-op patients by “pre-hab” of respiratory muscles.
Neuromuscular Disorders
Conditions affecting the muscles like muscular dystrophy can impair breathing. Trainers provide low-impact strengthening of these vital muscles.
Bronchiectasis
The permanently damaged airways in bronchiectasis lead to excessive mucus buildup. Frequent airway clearance with respiratory trainers helps manage associated infections and symptoms better.
In summary, with various versatile training devices now available, respiratory therapy has become an important part of managing several chronic pulmonary and neuromuscular diseases. By exercising the breathing muscles at home, patients can achieve multiple lung-boosting benefits.
*Note:
- Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
- We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
