Diaphragm Release Manual Technique Efficacy in COPD Patients

Diaphragm Release Manual Technique Efficacy on Diaphragmatic Mobility, Respiratory Muscle Strength and Exercise Performance in COPD Patients: a Randomized Controlled Trial

The aims of this study are to evaluate the effects of Diaphragm Release Manual Technique on diaphragm mobility, chest wall kinematics and functional capacity of COPD patients. Methods: Randomized controlled trial (double blinded) with COPD patients, allocated in two group: intervention (IG) who will receive the Diaphragm Release manual technique on 6 non-consecutive sessions and control group (CG), who will receive a sham protocol (light touch) with the same parameters of IG. Outcomes will be evaluated as: immediate and post treatment effects (after 1 and 6 sessions respectively). The primary outcome analysed will be the diaphragm displacement (ultrasonography evaluation) and secondary outcomes will comprise abdominal and chest wall kinematics.

Inclusion Criteria:

• CPOD patients
• ex-smokers
• clinically stable patients (no exacerbation in the previous 6 weeks)
• forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) < than 80% predicted
• FEV1/FVC ≤ 0.7, post bronchodilator

Exclusion Criteria:

• cardiopulmonary diseases
• BMI > 30.0 kg/m2
• History of thoracic surgery
• Denial to participate