NIH-funded research R21 grant

Improving breathing function for patients undergoing joint replacement surgery

Official title: Inspiratory Muscle Training to Improve Total Joint Arthroplasty Outcomes

Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10916497 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how breathing exercises before joint replacement surgery can help patients breathe better and recover faster, especially for those who might have trouble with their lungs due to age, smoking, or other health issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$190,625
NIH project number5R21AG083667-02
Project IDNIH-10916497 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are scheduled for total joint arthroplasty and have risk factors for pulmonary complications.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not undergoing total joint arthroplasty or do not have any risk factors for pulmonary complications may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of preoperative inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on patients scheduled for total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The study aims to enhance pulmonary function and reduce complications by implementing a training program that strengthens the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles before surgery. Patients will participate in a structured IMT regimen to potentially improve their recovery outcomes and reduce hospital stays. The research focuses on individuals at higher risk for respiratory issues due to factors like age, smoking, or pre-existing lung conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery and reduced complications for patients undergoing joint replacement surgeries.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that inspiratory muscle training can be beneficial for patients undergoing various surgical procedures, indicating a promising approach for this population.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Florida
    Gainesville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Smith, Barbara K — University of Florida
  • Study coordinator: Smith, Barbara K

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.