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

Not yet recruiting

• Conditions: Dysfunctional Breathing

• Registration Number: NCT06943027
• Lead Sponsor: Elif Tunç

Brief 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.

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.

Study Timeline

• Status Verified: 2025-04
• Study First Submitted: 2025-04-17
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-04-17
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-04-17
• Study First Posted: 2025-04-24
• Last Update Posted: 2025-04-24
• Study Start: 2025-05-15
• Primary Completion: 2025-06-15
• Study Completion: 2025-07-15

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: NOT_YET_RECRUITING
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 38

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

Study & Design

• Study Type: OBSERVATIONAL
• Study Design: Not specified

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Nijmegen Questionnaire Score	Baseline	Assessment of dysfunctional breathing symptoms using the Nijmegen Questionnaire.

Secondary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
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.