The present study aims at enhancing our understanding of the influence of the mouthpiece configuration on the amplitude of oral pressures generated during a maximum expiratory pressure maneuver and on the neuromuscular recruitment of expiratory muscles (more specifically of the internal oblique and the transverse abdominal muscles). Incidentally, it also aims at clarifying the role of orofacial muscles, if any, in the neuromuscular recruitment of the aforementioned muscles.
Enhancing our understanding of the influence of the mouthpiece configuration on oral pressures and on the neuromuscular recruitment of the internal oblique and the transverse abdominal muscles during a maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) maneuver is the primary goal of this study Maximal Respiratory Mouth Pressures (MIP and MEP): Maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) are commonly used indices to assess respiratory muscle strength at the mouth. MIP measures the strength of inspiratory muscles, while MEP assesses expiratory muscle strength. These measurements are simple, convenient, and noninvasive. However, clear standards for these measurements are not well-established. Choice of Mouthpiece: We propose exploring different mouthpiece designs to know their impact on pressure measurements. Influence of Mouthpiece Design: The type of mouthpiece used can affect pressure measurements. Some investigators recommend including a small leak in the measuring circuit to dissipate pressure generated in the mouth and minimize measurement errors. However, specific studies focusing on the influence of mouthpiece design on MEP and neuromuscular recruitment of expiratory muscles (such as the internal oblique and transverse muscles) during MEP maneuvers would be valuable. Additional Considerations: Factors like body position (sitting vs. half-lying) may also impact pressure measurements, although no significant differences were found in one study. Among the objectives of our study, we aim at exploring ways to improve the accuracy and reliability of respiratory pressure measurements. In summary, understanding the impact of mouthpiece design on oral pressures during MEP maneuvers is essential for accurate assessment of respiratory muscle function. Further research in this area could provide valuable insights for clinical practice and pulmonary function laboratories.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
50
Participants will undergo serial expiratory maneuvers using variously-sized circular mouthpieces and a reference ovoid-shaped mouthpiece. At each maneuver, the maximal expiratory mouth pressure at total lung capacity will be measured, alongside with the degree of neuromuscular activation of the internal oblique and transverse abdominal muscles using surface electromyography. The Orbicularis Oris strength will also be measured using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument.
Maximal expiratory pressure
Time frame: 120 minutes
Root mean square of the EMG signal
Time frame: 120 minutes
Orbicularis Oris Performance Index
Obtained after computational processing of participant photographs using a MatLab based software. This index is a newly developed marker of the Orbicularis Oris function based on different anthropometric variables
Time frame: 5 minutes
Orbicularis Oris strength
Obtained through the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument
Time frame: 10 minutes
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