Myofascial Release in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Effects of Myofascial Release in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: a Randomized Clinical Trial

The main objective of this study is to assess the effects of a myofascial release protocol in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

So far, there are no previous studies that analyze the effects of a myofascial relaxation protocol applied to the diaphragm within the respiratory rehabilitation treatment in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Aim: The main objective of this study is to assess the effects of a 3 weeks myofascial release protocol applied to the diaphragm on respiratory parameters in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Design: Randomized clinical trial

Inclusion Criteria:

• COPD;
• Forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) < 80%;
• FEV1/Forced vital capacity (FVC) < 70%;
• Maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) < 70%.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Recent (6 months) spine or abdominal surgery;
• Allergic status of any kind;
• systemic diseases (rheumatic, infectious conditions, febrile state, vascular alterations, endocrine diseases including diabetes, metabolic, and neoplastic syndromes);
• neuromuscular or neurological injuries;
• previous myofascial release treatment.