Effect of Pressure Threshold Loading Training on Quality of Life in Post Stroke Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Stroke prevalence represents a significant global burden, serving as a key cause of long-term disability and a catalyst for increased medical complications, affecting daily life and increasing health risks. Objective: We aimed to explore the impact of pressure threshold loading training on the quality of life (QOL) among post-stroke survivors. Material and methods: This randomized controlled trial involved 34 stroke survivors of both sexes, aged 40 to 55 years, equally assigned at random (n=17/group) into group A, who underwent respiratory training utilizing the Orygen dual valve alongside a conventional rehabilitation program, and group B, who received a sham respiratory muscle training (RMT) intervention besides the same conventional program. The protocol was conducted over an eight-weeks period, with sessions held three days per week and twice daily. To evaluate the efficacy of the intervention on patient outcomes, the Stroke Specific QOL Scale (SSQOL) served as the primary assessment tool for measuring QOL. Results: A significant increase in the SSQOL scale in the 2 groups after the intervention. Although inter-group analysis yielded no statistically significant variance between the two cohorts, a significant intra-group improvement in SSQOL scores was observed within both groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion: 8 weeks of RMT using orygen dual valve device had a significant effect on QOL in post-stroke survivors. ？