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The Effects of Protocolized Breathing Exercises on Pulmonary Function in Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy.
Sponsor: Semmelweis University
Summary
This multicenter randomized controlled pilot trial evaluates whether an 8-week protocolized breathing exercise program improves pulmonary function and quality of life in adolescents and young adults with cerebral palsy. Participants are randomized to either a structured breathing exercise program added to usual pedagogical rehabilitation care or sham breathing exercises plus usual care. The study assesses changes in spirometric outcomes (FVC, FEV₁, PEF) and patient-reported quality of life and emotional well-being. Participants complete respiratory assessments and questionnaires at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up.
Official title: The Effects of Protocolized Breathing Exercises on Pulmonary Function and Quality of Life in School-aged Children With Cerebral Palsy
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
12 Years - 22 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
360
Start Date
2027-04-05
Completion Date
2027-09-06
Last Updated
2026-10-14
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Protocolized breathing exercises
The investigator developed a protocolized breathing program based on a systematic review of Dr. András Pető's work. Exercises were designed to be simple and easily guided by video or a trained therapist. The intervention group receives an 8-week structured breathing exercise program in addition to standard care. The program consists of short, guided daily sessions (approximately 15 minutes per day), including deep breathing, abdominal breathing, controlled inhalation and exhalation patterns, and forced expiration exercises using simple aids (e.g., balloons or windmills). Therapists guided participants through a standardized rhythm (3-4 s inhalation, 1-2 s hold, 5-6 s exhalation), using playful tools such as windmills or balloons for forced exhalation.
Sham Breathing Exercises
The control group receives usual care and performs sham breathing activities for only 3 minutes/day. During the sham condition, participants are instructed only to breathe naturally without performing any structured or guided breathing exercises. This approach is intended to control for attention and environmental exposure without providing active respiratory training.
Locations (1)
Semmelweis University András Pető Faculty
Budapest, Pest County, Hungary