Investigation of the Relationship Between Dysfunctional Breathing and Physical Fitness Parameters in Healty Adults

NCT06943027 — Not yet recruiting, 38 participants, Elif Tunç

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Investigation of the Relationship Between Dysfunctional Breathing and Physical Fitness Parameters in Healthy Adults

Registry	NCT06943027, acronym DISFIT
Status	Not yet recruiting
Study type	Observational
Enrollment	38 (Estimated)
Sponsor	Elif Tunç (Other)
Conditions	Dysfunctional Breathing
Dates	start 2025-05-15 (estimated), primary completion 2025-06-15 (estimated), completion 2025-07-15 (estimated), first posted 2025-04-24, last updated 2025-04-24

-Summary

This observational study aims to investigate the relationship between dysfunctional breathing and physical fitness parameters in healthy adults aged 18-35. Participants will be evaluated using the Nijmegen Questionnaire to assess dysfunctional breathing symptoms, and their physical fitness will be measured using the ALPHA-FIT Test Battery. Respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary function will also be assessed. The findings may help healthcare professionals better understand dysfunctional breathing and develop targeted treatment programs.

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+Detailed description

Dysfunctional breathing (DB) is characterized by chronic alterations in the respiratory cycle, often leading to symptoms such as dyspnea, chest tightness, and hyperventilation. Despite its prevalence, DB is frequently underdiagnosed and mismanaged due to limited awareness among healthcare professionals. This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the relationship between DB symptoms and physical fitness in healthy young adults. A total of 38 participants diagnosed with DB will be assessed at Istinye University using the Nijmegen Questionnaire, ALPHA-FIT Test Battery, spirometry, and measurements of maximum inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) mouth pressures. Data on sociodemographic characteristics will also be collected. The results of this study are expected to support clinicians in the accurate identification of DB and provide insight for the development of personalized rehabilitation strategies that improve physical fitness and respiratory health.

+Outcome measures

Primary outcomes

Nijmegen Questionnaire Score [Baseline]: Assessment of dysfunctional breathing symptoms using the Nijmegen Questionnaire.

Secondary outcomes

ALPHA-FIT Test Battery Performance [Baseline]: Evaluation of physical fitness components such as strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance in participants.
Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (MIP) and Maximum Expiratory Pressure (MEP) [Baseline]: Measurement of respiratory muscle strength using a mouth pressure device to evaluate inspiratory and expiratory capacities.

+Eligibility

Sex: All, ages: 18 Years to 35 Years, accepts healthy volunteers

Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged between 18-35 years
* Healthy individuals with no known systemic, neurological, or musculoskeletal disorders
* Nijmegen Questionnaire score >23 (indicative of dysfunctional breathing)
* Voluntary participation with informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosed with respiratory, cardiovascular, or metabolic disease
* Currently receiving physiotherapy or pulmonary rehabilitation
* Regular use of medication affecting breathing or exercise capacity
* Pregnancy

+Publications

Results publication: Kiesel K, Plisky PJ, Voight ML. Can Serious Injury in Professional Football be Predicted by a Preseason Functional Movement Screen? N Am J Sports Phys Ther. 2007 Aug;2(3):147-58. PMID 21522210
Results publication: Courtney R. The functions of breathing and its dysfunctions and their relationship to breathing therapy. Int J Osteopath Med. 2009;12(3):78-85. doi:10.1016/j.ijosm.2009.04.002