Efficacy of JaPer Method for Improving Aerobic Capacity and Maximal Inspiratory Capacity in Postoperative Cardiovascular Patients
Keywords:
cardiovascular rehabilitation; inspiratory training; aerobic capacity; cardiac surgery; physiotherapy.Abstract
Introduction: Inspiratory muscle training is an effective strategy in cardiovascular rehabilitation; however, its structured and progressive application still requires validation.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of JaPer method, a personalized inspiratory training protocol, in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery.
Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted involving 101 patients divided into two groups: an experimental group (n = 52), which received JaPer method in addition to cardiovascular rehabilitation, and a control group (n = 49), which received cardiovascular rehabilitation alone. Both groups were evaluated before and after the program using the 6-minute walk test, estimated VO₂, and maximal inspiratory capacity. Normality testing was performed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, and Student's t-test for independent samples was used for between-group comparisons. When a non-normal distribution was identified, equivalent non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon or Mann-Whitney U) were applied, and effect size (Cohen's d) was calculated.
Results: The JaPer group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in estimated VO₂ (p = 0,000), maximal inspiratory capacity (p = 0,001), and distance walked (p = 0,000). The effect size was large for all variables (d > 0.8). The control group showed moderate improvements, which were significantly lower than those of the experimental group.
Conclusions: JaPer method proved effective in improving aerobic capacity and inspiratory strength in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery. The progressive and individualized application makes it as an effective complementary strategy within cardiovascular rehabilitation programs.
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