OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on respiratory functions, respiratory muscle strength, and asthma symptoms in asthmatic children. METHODS: In a randomized placebo-controlled assessor-blinded study, 34 children with asthma were randomized to receive either the IMT at 40% of the maximal inspiratory pressure (IPmax) for 20 min/session, thrice/week, over 12 consecutive weeks (IMT group; n = 17) or placebo IMT at 5% of IPmax (placebo group; n = 17). Additionally, both groups received the conventional respiratory rehabilitation (CRR) program. Outcome measurements performed pre- and post-treatment, included respiratory functions (forced expiratory volume at the first second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FEV), and FEV1/FVC), respiratory muscle strength (represented by IPmax and maximal expiratory pressure (EPmax), and asthma control test (ACT). RESULTS: At a significance level adjusted to p < 0.008, there were significant post-treatment differences between the IMT and placebo groups in FEV1 (p = 0.003), FVC (p = 0.001), FEV1/FVC (p = 0.004), IPmax (p = 0.002), EPmax (p = 0.004), and ACT (p = 0.001) adjusted to the pretreatment values, in favor of the IMT group. CONCLUSION: Incorporation of IMT in the CRR program for children with asthma can improve respiratory function, enhance respiratory muscle strength, and improve children's perception of asthma symptoms.

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