Manual Diaphragm Release on Stepping Reaction Time in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Effect of Manual Diaphragm Release Technique on Stepping Reaction Time and Balance in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Finding the effect of diaphragm release exercises on stepping reaction time and balance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.

Sixty patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) will be randomly assigned to the experimental (EX) group and the control group (CON). The participants' age will be 55 years and above with history of COPD. The Ex group will attend 4 sessions/week of Manual Diaphragm Release Technique Combined with Deep Breathing (10:15-min) for 8 weeks, the CON will attend 4 sessions/week of Deep Breathing (10:15-min) for 8 weeks. The stepping reaction time will be assessed by the choice stepping reaction time (CSRT). The Balance will be determined using a Time up and Go test (TUG) an d Berg balance scale (BBS). All the outcomes will be examined at baseline, and 8 weeks of the intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All participants with a history of COPD
• Adults ranging from 55- 70 years old of both genders.
• Medically stable

Exclusion Criteria:

• Obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2)
• History of Pneumonia
• Diaphragmatic hernia, clinical evidence of phrenic nerve injury, recent abdominal or thoracic surgery, or history of traumatic lesion possibly affecting diaphragm.
• History of Myocardial infarction and/or cardiothoracic surgery
• orthopedics, or neurological that may interfere the intervention.
• Visual impairments, vestibular disorders, and postural hypotension.
• Dementia that interferes with the ability to follow instructions.