Effect of Resonance Frequency Paced Breathing as an Adjuvant to Standard Treatment on Heart Rate and Cardiac Autonomic Parameters in Patients with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: POTS is an autonomic disorder that significantly impacts the quality of life, with limited treatment options available. While symptomatic management remains the primary approach, there is a growing need for alternative, non-pharmacological interventions. RF-paced breathing, a controlled breathing technique that synchronizes heart rate and respiration, has shown potential in improving autonomic function and heart rate variability (HRV), offering a novel therapeutic strategy.

Novelty: Unlike existing studies that primarily assess the short-term effects of slow breathing, this study introduces a novel approach by utilizing extended RF breathing sessions as an adjunct to standard POTS treatment.

Objectives: The primary objective is to assess effects of RF-paced breathing on heart rate response, cardiac autonomic parameters, and symptomatology in patients with POTS. By investigating its long-term efficacy, the study seeks to determine whether RF-paced breathing can serve as a viable alternative to pharmacological treatments.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial design will be used, with participants randomly assigned to a group receiving RF-paced breathing in addition to standard treatment or to a control group. The study will measure heart rate, HRV, and POTS-related symptoms at baseline and follow-up time points.

Expected Outcomes: This study is expected to provide insights into the sustained effects of RF-paced breathing on autonomic function and POTS symptoms, with potential for establishing a non-pharmacological approach to managing the disorder.