Effects of core stabilization exercises on respiratory muscle strength in children with cystic fibrosis

Background: Respiratory muscle dysfunction can occur due to hyperinflation and increased airway resistance in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate core stabilization exercise on respiratory muscle strength in CF. Methods: Sixteen children with CF were included in the study. Patients were randomly allocated to either the core stabilization exercise group (EG) (n=8) or the control group (CG) (n=8). The exercise protocol included breathing exercises, sit-ups, plank, bridge, and lateral plank. Exercises were applied three days per week for eight weeks with a physiotherapist remotely. The importance of physical activity and recommendations was provided to the control group. Respiratory muscle strength was assessed using maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP, respectively) and sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP). Results: Childrens9 mean age were 10.8±1.7 years. MIP, MEP, and SNIP values were similar between the two groups at the baseline (p>0.05). MEP (ΔEG=14.3±8.4 cm H2O; ΔCG=-6.5±19.4 cm H2O) and SNIP (ΔEG=22.1±17.1 cm H2O; ΔCG=-2.1±23.8 cm H2O) values increased in the exercise training group compared to the control group at the end of the study (p=0.01; p=0.03 respectively) . Conclusions: Core stabilization exercises improve respiratory muscle strength. These exercises focus on lumbopelvic stability, which includes various muscles such as abdominal muscles, lower and middle back muscles, and core stability, which includes the diaphragm. Therefore, core stabilization exercise may positively affect respiratory muscle strength in CF and can be added to routine physiotherapy programs in CF patients.