Respiratory Strength Training versus Respiratory Relaxation Training in the Rehabilitation of Physical Impairment, Function and Return to Participation Post-Stroke: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)

Persistent disability in chronic stroke survivors is often attributed to arm or leg weakness; however, respiratory muscle weakness also impedes poststroke rehabilitation, reduces quality of life, and increases the risk of health complications. Respiratory complications are common after stroke and place patients at risk for both prolonged functional disability and mortality. In addition, stroke survivors face ongoing cardiovascular disease that places them at risk for recurrent stroke.