Diaphragm training for GERD symptoms

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This interventional study randomly assigns adults with confirmed GERD to diaphragmatic breathing exercises, volume-oriented incentive spirometry, or usual care to compare outcomes. Researchers will measure symptom scores (GERDQ), esophageal acid exposure and number of reflux episodes, lower esophageal sphincter pressure, esophageal motility, and GERD-related quality of life. Interventions are non-invasive, home-based breathing protocols or spirometry use with scheduled follow-up visits and physiologic testing. Results will determine whether adding diaphragm-oriented respiratory training provides measurable improvements over standard care.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Include Criteria:

* Age between 20 and 80 years.2. A confirmed diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), defined by at least one of the following criteria
* Endoscopic examination within the past 3 months demonstrating Los Angeles (LA) grade A reflux esophagitis with regular use of acid-suppressive medication (e.g., proton pump inhibitors) for more than 2 months.
* 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring showing acid exposure time (AET) \> 6%.
* Endoscopic examination within the past 3 months demonstrating LA grade B or higher reflux esophagitis.
* Willingness and ability to participate in the intervention program, including adherence to training protocols, scheduled follow-up visits, and completion of all required assessments during the study period.

Exclusion Criteria

* Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
* History of anti-reflux surgery or other upper gastrointestinal surgical procedures related to GERD.
* Presence of significant cardiopulmonary disease or chronic respiratory disease that may compromise the safety or feasibility of performing breathing training.
* Inability to comply with the study protocol, including participation in training procedures and scheduled follow-up visits, due to conditions such as cognitive impairment, physical limitations, or inability to attend regular visits.

Where it's running

• Changhua Christian Hospital
  Changhua, Changhua County, Taiwan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Kun-Chin Chou, MD
• Email: 84798@cch.org.tw
• Phone: +886-4-723-8595

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.