Yoga Breath Training for Spinal Cord Injury
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this interventional study is to understand how regular yogic breathing practice, particularly a slow resistive yogic breathing technique called Ujjayi, would benefit individuals between the ages of 18 and 60 with spinal cord injuries. Previously yogic breathing has shown to improve respiratory function and sleep- we'd like to explore this further. The main questions this study aims to answer are: * How does Ujjayi breathing affect breathing patterns in individuals with spinal cord injuries? * How does Ujjayi breathing affect lung function in individuals with spinal cord injuries? * How does Ujjayi breathing affect the part of the nervous system responsible for ventilatory control in individuals with spinal cord injuries? * How does Ujjayi breathing affect ventilatory perfusion (how well air and blood flow match in the lungs for efficient gas exchange) in individuals with spinal cord injuries? * How does Ujjayi breathing affect sleep quality in individuals with spinal cord injuries? Participants will undergo six weeks of training in Ujjayi breathing. Before and after this period, they will visit the lab for measurements of blood pressure, pulse, blood oxygen levels, and breathing. They will also perform several tests: * Pulmonary function testing to assess lung capacity and respiratory muscle strength. * Pace breathing frequency to four pre-recorded audio files at various breathing rates. * Breathing exercises involving higher levels of carbon dioxide for a short time. * Breathing exercises involving lower levels of oxygen for a short time. * At-home sleep evaluation. Between the two laboratory testing sessions, participants will practice yogic resistance breathing (Ujjayi breathing) for six weeks.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are using tobacco or certain heart-related medications, except those for blood pressure.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Ujjayi Yogic Breathing for spinal cord injury?
Is yoga breathing safe for people with spinal cord injuries?
How does Ujjayi Yogic Breathing differ from other treatments for spinal cord injury?
Ujjayi Yogic Breathing is unique because it focuses on controlled breathing techniques to enhance neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to reorganize itself) and improve respiratory function, which is crucial for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Unlike other treatments that may involve medication or physical exercises, this method uses breath control to potentially improve both respiratory and non-respiratory functions.910111213
Research Team
J. Andrew Taylor, MS, PhD
Principal Investigator
Harvard Medical School/Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for individuals aged 18-60 with spinal cord injuries. It's designed to see if a type of yogic breathing called Ujjayi can improve their respiratory function and sleep quality. Participants will need to commit to six weeks of breath training and lab visits for various tests.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants undergo baseline laboratory assessments including measurements of blood pressure, pulse, blood oxygen levels, and breathing, as well as pulmonary function testing and other breathing exercises.
Treatment
Participants practice Ujjayi breathing for six weeks, with coaching sessions in weeks 1 and 4, and virtual support for home practice.
Post-intervention Assessment
Participants undergo post-intervention laboratory assessments similar to baseline, to measure changes in pulmonary function, ventilatory perfusion, ventilatory pattern, chemosensitivity, and sleep quality.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any long-term effects and safety after the intervention.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Ujjayi Yogic Breathing
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
Lead Sponsor