A new sleep laboratory study published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine demonstrates that steam-assisted respiratory muscle training is associated with improvements in sleep architecture among adults diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
The study utilised full-night laboratory polysomnography, regarded as the most comprehensive measurement method in sleep medicine. To date, relatively few studies on respiratory muscle training have analysed sleep architecture at this level of detail under laboratory conditions, making this research a rare and valuable contribution to the field of sleep physiology.
Key Findings
After 12 weeks of steam-assisted respiratory muscle training:
- Time to REM sleep was reduced
- The proportion of REM sleep increased
- Nocturnal periodic limb movements and related arousals decreased
The findings suggest that steam-assisted respiratory muscle training may influence sleep regulation and nocturnal autonomic balance, beyond purely mechanical airway effects. Importantly, the study evaluated comprehensive sleep architecture rather than focusing solely on respiratory event frequency.
The research was conducted at the Sleep Research Centre of the University of Turku in Finland, an internationally recognised environment for sleep physiology research.
“What is exceptional in this study is that the effects were evaluated using full-scale laboratory polysomnography. The changes observed in REM sleep and nocturnal movement disturbances suggest that steam-assisted respiratory muscle training may influence the neural regulation of sleep. CPAP maintains airway patency, but sleep physiology is complex, and complementary physiological strategies may warrant further investigation”, explains Dr. Usame Al-Rammahi.
A New Perspective on Sleep-Related Breathing Interventions
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy remains the standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, although long-term adherence challenges are well documented in scientific literature.
The study investigated how structured respiratory muscle training is associated with physiological markers related to sleep and nocturnal regulation.
The intervention utilised the WellO2 steam breathing trainer. WellO2 is a Finnish health technology company pioneering drug-free respiratory solutions. Its patented devices combine warm steam inhalation with adjustable resistance training to improve lung function, support breathing health, and enhance overall well-being.
Sleep-related problems significantly impair overall well-being and daily functioning. There is a clear need for accessible and practical physiological training approaches that may contribute to improved sleep quality and general well-being.
WellO2 is a wellness product. It is not regulated as a medical device and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
