RehabGBs: Rehabilitation in People With Guillain-Barré Syndrome

What this Trial Is About

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a neurological condition that causes inflammation of the peripheral nerves and can lead to long-term disability, including respiratory muscle weakness. This weakness can cause breathing difficulties, trouble clearing secretions, and low ventilation, negatively affecting daily life. Researchers are evaluating the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT), a breathing exercise program, on respiratory strength, lung function, fatigue, and quality of life for people with GBS through a randomized controlled trial called RehabGBs. The study involves two groups: one receiving standard inpatient rehabilitation alone and the other receiving the same rehabilitation plus a 6-week IMT program using a handheld electronic device called PowerBreath KH2. Participants will train 5 days a week with IMT sessions consisting of 6 cycles of 30 breaths daily, with the resistance adjusted based on symptoms. The inpatient rehabilitation program includes about 5 hours per day of therapy, five days a week, involving physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychology, and other supportive care. Participants will take part in assessments during the 6-week program to measure changes in maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures, peak cough flow, muscle strength, fatigue, independence, and oxygen levels. The study will also determine important clinical thresholds to guide future rehabilitation and examine the prevalence of nighttime breathing problems in GBS patients. Safety and progress will be monitored throughout, with a total participation period of 6 weeks for the intervention.

RehabGBs: Rehabilitation in People With Guillain-Barré Syndrome