CHEST-MND

What is CHEST - MND? 

CHEST-MND stands for “Combined Hyperinflation and Expiratory Strength Training in people with MND”. The CHEST-MND: COHORT trial is an observational study that follows people who are trying this therapy with their usual clinical physiotherapists. There is no placebo arm in this trial; all participants undergo active respiratory training. Hyperinflation is a respiratory technique that helps you take a very deep breath in, and expiratory muscle strength training is a technique that strengthens the breathing out muscles. 

This trial is testing the “real-world” feasibility and acceptability of combining these therapies, for people living with MND and clinicians who deliver the intervention. It will also explore whether this therapy improves respiratory function, cough symptoms, and quality of life in people with MND. Trial results will inform the design of future larger scale studies by evaluating adherence, acceptability, and preliminary physiological outcomes.

How can I take part in this trial? 

This trial is being undertaken by trained physiotherapists across specific sites in Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and Tasmania. Participating sites are listed below. For more information, contact your local physiotherapist at the site below, or contact the coordinating researcher, Dr Nicole Sheers [email protected].

Eligibility Criteria: 

• People living with MND who are receiving physiotherapy services within their usual MND care pathway, AND for whom lung volume recruitment and expiratory muscle strength training are being recommended by the treating physiotherapist.
• Able to provide informed consent.
• Proficient in English.

Want to know more?

For more information visit the ANZCTR – Registration (https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=389661)