Single-session effects of acute intermittent hypoxia on breathing function after human spinal cord injury

Exp Neurol, 2021 · DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113735 · Published: August 1, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Pulmonology Physiology

Simple Explanation

This study investigated if a single session of acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) could improve breathing in adults with spinal cord injury (SCI). AIH involves short periods of low oxygen alternating with normal oxygen levels. The researchers measured maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP/MEP), forced vital capacity (FVC), and mouth occlusion pressure (P0.1) before and after AIH or a sham treatment. The results showed that a single AIH session increased maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) but did not significantly affect other breathing functions in adults with SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

17 adults with chronic SCI

Evidence Level

Level 2: Randomized crossover study

Key Findings

1
A single AIH session significantly increased maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) compared to a sham treatment in adults with SCI.
2
There were no significant changes in maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), forced vital capacity (FVC), or mouth occlusion pressure (P0.1) following a single AIH session.
3
Participants with cervical injuries had significantly lower baseline MIP and MEP values than participants with thoracic injuries.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the impact of a single session of acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) on breathing capacity in adults with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). The primary finding was that AIH increased maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), suggesting improved ability to generate forceful voluntary inspiratory maneuvers. The authors conclude that AIH may have therapeutic potential for improving breathing-related health outcomes in individuals with SCI and warrants further investigation.

Practical Implications

Potential Therapeutic Strategy

AIH may serve as a non-invasive method to improve breathing in SCI patients.

Improved Airway Defense

Increased MIP suggests a potential to improve cough and reduce pneumonia risk.

Further Research Needed

Future studies should explore repetitive AIH sessions and combinations with breathing exercises.

Study Limitations

1
The heterogeneity of participant injury characteristics limits the understanding of factors that may affect AIH-induced plasticity.
2
Medication use was not strictly controlled, which may have influenced the results.
3
The study did not optimize AIH protocol features such as hypoxia levels or include background hypercapnia.

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