| Abstract |
Purpose: This systematic review was designed to analyze studies examining the effects of respiratory muscle training on
cervical spinal cord injury. Methods: Randomized controlled trials on the rehabilitation of patients with cervical spinal
cord injury were searched using four databases: Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), PubMed, and Google Scholar.
Five studies were selected according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis
guidelines, and the PEDro scale was used for qualitative analysis. For rehabilitation, a protocol including respiratory
training and physical activity was selected. Results: Of the 135 studies identified in the 2019-2022 period, three were
finally selected. All studies performed respiratory muscle training for 30-40 min a day, 5 days a week, for 6-12 weeks.
Performing a meta-analysis was difficult because of differences in the study design, and all studies reported significant
improvement in respiratory function compared with that in the control group. Conclusion: The literature on various
respiratory muscle training for cervical spinal cord injury is scarce. However, it is confirmed that respiratory muscle
training has a positive effect on not only respiratory function but also neuroplasticity, cardiovascular autonomic function,
and quality of life in patients with cervical spinal cord injury. |