Respiratory Strength Training in Persons With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- diagnosis of probable or definite Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS),
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Rating Scale Revised score greater than 34,
- forced vital capacity greater than 70%,
- cognition within normal limits as determined by Montreal assessment of cognition score >25
Exclusion Criteria:
- allergies to barium,
- tracheotomy or mechanical ventilation,
- diaphragmatic pacer,
- concurrent respiratory disease (e.g. COPD),
- pregnant at the time of the study due to radiation exposure
Sites / Locations
- UF Health Shands
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Sham Comparator
Active Respiratory Trainer
Sham Trainer
Participants enrolled in this arm will be given the PowerLung trainer. The adjustable spring allows for discrete and calibrated changes to the valve, which in turn blocks air until sufficient inspiratory or expiratory pressure is applied by an individual. In addition, the Micro Mouth Pressure Meter, Pulmonary Function testing, videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS), Swallowing Quality of Life Questionnaire (SWAL-QOL), Iowa Oral Pressure Instrument (IOPI), and capsaicin for use in the reflexive cough test.
Participants enrolled in this arm will be given the PowerLung trainer; however, the adjustable spring allows for discrete and calibrated changes to the valve and these will not have any resistance. In addition, the Micro Mouth Pressure Meter, Pulmonary Function testing, videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS), Swallowing Quality of Life Questionnaire (SWAL-QOL), Iowa Oral Pressure Instrument (IOPI), and capsaicin for use in the reflexive cough test.