Exploring muscle strength exercises for treating sleep apnea

Effect of Upper Respiratory Muscle Strength Exercise on Sleep Apnea Using WellO2 Respiratory Exercise Device

Not applicable Interventional Turku University Hospital · NCT05320952

This study is testing whether using a breathing training device can help people with mild to moderate sleep apnea improve their symptoms and quality of life.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorTurku University Hospital Government
Locations1 site (Turku)
Trial IDNCT05320952 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of the WellO2 breathing training device on patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea who are not currently receiving other treatments. Participants will undergo a 3-month intervention period using the device, followed by a 3-month washout phase to assess the long-term effects on apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and quality of life. The study aims to determine if this novel approach can improve symptoms and overall patient experience. Participants will be monitored through polysomnography and questionnaires to evaluate their progress.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are working adults aged 18 to 60 with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.

Not a fit: Patients with severe obesity, significant pulmonary diseases, or those currently using CPAP or other sleep apnea treatments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide an alternative treatment option for patients who struggle with traditional CPAP therapy.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on the specific use of WellO2 for sleep apnea, similar interventions focusing on muscle strength and breathing techniques have shown promise in related conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18-60 years
* Male:Famel 1:1
* AHI 10-29 / h
* working patients

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous surgical treatment for sleep apnea, current CPAP or mandibular device therapy
* significant history of nasal, oral and pharyngeal disorders
* BMI\> 40 kg / m2
* other severe pulmonary diseases (eg COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis) severe heart failure (NYHA 3-4), previous brain insult, neuromuscular disease or pregnancy, and work disability.

Where this trial is running

Turku

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Sleep Apneasleep apneamuscle strength exerciseWellO2apnea hypopnea
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.