Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Effectiveness of Resonance Frequency Breathing Exercises in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Central Sensitization
Sponsor: Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa
Summary
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by systemic inflammation, fatigue, central sensitization, and chronic pain. While physical exercise is strongly recommended to enhance functional capacity and manage fatigue, heightened central sensitivity and pain often limit adherence and clinical gains. Resonance frequency breathing (paced diaphragmatic breathing at 6 breaths per minute, 0.1 Hz) stimulates the baroreflex and facilitates autonomic regulation, which may alleviate central pain processing. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of resonance frequency breathing added to a standard exercise program compared with exercise alone on central sensitization, pain thresholds, fatigue, pain catastrophizing, functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength, disease activity, and quality of life in patients with SLE. Participants will be randomly allocated to either a Standard Exercise Group or a Standard Exercise + Resonance Breathing Group for an 8-week intervention.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 65 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
38
Start Date
2026-11-01
Completion Date
2027-09-01
Last Updated
2026-10-09
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Resonance Frequency Breathing
Diaphragmatic paced breathing at 6 breaths per minute (0.1 Hz) with a 4:6 second inhalation-to-exhalation ratio via pursed-lip technique, performed 10-20 minutes daily using the offline mobile application "Prana Breath" under a progressive motor learning framework
Standard Exercise Program
An 8-week structured exercise program comprising aerobic, progressive resistance, joint range of motion, and stretching exercises administered twice weekly under supervision and supported by home activity logs to achieve 150 minutes of weekly aerobic exercise.
Locations (1)
Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology
Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)