Effect of Expiratory Muscle Strength Training on Swallowing and Cough Functions in Patients With Neurological Diseases: A Meta-Analysis

American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Wang, Z., Wang, Z., et al. (2019).

American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 98(12), 1060-1066.

This meta-analysis examines the effects of expiratory muscle strength training on the cough and swallowing function of individuals with neurological diseases.

National Key Research and Development Program of China; Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province (China)

Up to September 2018

Randomized controlled trials; pre/post test designs

10

The findings suggest that expiratory muscle strength training (EMST) improves swallowing function in individuals with dysphagia secondary to neurological diseases (e.g., Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Pooled findings from five studies reported a significant reduction in penetration aspiration scale scores (RR = -0.94, 95% CI: -1.27 to -0.61). However, no effects were found for the use of EMST on cough function (i.e., voluntary cough peak expiratory flow rate, cough volume acceleration). No studies examined cough reflex. Given the small number of participants in included studies and heterogeneity of swallowing outcomes used, further research is warranted.