Effectiveness of Functional Respiratory Muscle Training in Post-COVID-19 Syndrome

This study aims to investigate the effects of core stabilization exercises and functional inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on various physiological and psychological parameters in individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome. Participants diagnosed with post-COVID-19 syndrome will be randomly assigned to two groups using stratified computer-assisted randomization. One group will undergo an 8-week core stabilization training, while the other will receive combined core stabilization and IMT training. Exercise training will be conducted three times a week, with each session lasting 50 minutes.

Comprehensive pre- and post-intervention assessments will be conducted, including exercise capacity, respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, trunk endurance, balance, anxiety, depression, and fatigue levels. The primary outcome measures are respiratory muscle strength and trunk endurance.

Participants must be aged 18-65 years, have at least a primary education level, speak Turkish, and be classified as level 2-3 on the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status Scale (PCFS). Eligible participants will be referred by the Internal Medicine Department at Hacettepe University.

The study will utilize various assessment tools, including maximal inspiratory/expiratory pressure (MIP/MEP) tests, Functional Movement Screen (FMS), plank and Sorenson endurance tests, the Timed Up and Go Test for balance, handgrip and knee extension strength tests, body composition analysis, and the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire.