The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of manual therapy (MT) and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on respiratory function, fatigue, and activities of daily living in children with muscular disorders.

The study was conducted at Rehabilitaion Center with 28 children dignosed with muscle disease and who met the inclusion criteria. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Both groups joined a conventional physiotherapy program 3 days a week for 6 weeks. In addition to the conventional physiotherapy program, MT techniques were used 3 days a week, IMT were used in the study group twice a day, 5 days a week. Respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength and chest circumference were measured. The tests used during the evaluations are: Corbin Posture Analysis, Goniometer, Manual Muscle Strength Test, Sit and Reach, Timed Up and Go, Motor Function Measure and Trunk Impairment Scale, Visual Analog Scale and Dyspnea and Functional Indepenence Measurement.

When comparing the groups after treatment, the pulmonary functions in the Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) measurement parameters increased over time in the study group and decreased over time in the control group. The change in FVC in 1 second FEV1/FVC and Peak Expiratory Volume (%) was significant in the study group(p<0.05). However, maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressure measurements were not significant between groups(p>0.05). Additionally, it has been observed that our practice may have positive effects on respiratory muscle strength, functionality and activities of daily living. It was also observed that it may be effective in reducing fatigue and dyspnea (p<0.05).