Comparison of Thoracic Squeeze and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique on Respiratory Parameters and Functional Capacity in COPD Patients
Trial Snapshot
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Completed
- Enrollment
- 36
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- Functional capacity
Study Overview
Brief Summary
The goal of this randomized control trial is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of two physiotherapy techniques-Thoracic Squeeze Technique (TST) and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique (MDRT)-on improving respiratory parameters, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with mild to moderate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Objectives:
- Assess the impact of TST and MDRT on respiratory parameters (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, and chest expansion).
- Compare the functional capacity outcomes of the two techniques using the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT).
- Evaluate the effects of TST and MDRT on patient wellbeing and daily life through the COPD Assessment Test (CAT).
Study Design:
The study involves 34 participants, divided into two groups (n=17 each) via sealed envelope randomization. Both groups will receive their respective interventions (TST or MDRT) alongside a standardized pulmonary rehabilitation protocol (pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, active cycle of breathing, and endurance exercises). The intervention will be conducted three times per week for three weeks.
Outcome Measures:
Primary outcomes include respiratory parameters assessed through spirometry and chest expansion using a measuring tape. Secondary outcomes include functional capacity (6MWT) and patient wellbeing (CAT scores). Baseline and post-intervention measures will be analyzed using SPSS, employing Mixed ANOVA to determine interaction effects.
Detailed Description
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the respiratory system that progressively impairs airflow, leading to significant limitations in physical capacity and quality of life. COPD is a global health concern, being the third leading cause of death worldwide, with an increasing prevalence due to aging populations and environmental pollution. Despite advancements in pharmacological treatments, COPD management requires comprehensive rehabilitation strategies, particularly for improving respiratory function and functional capacity.
Two physiotherapy techniques, the Thoracic Squeeze Technique and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique, have been individually employed to address respiratory function in COPD patients. However, direct comparisons of their effectiveness on respiratory parameters, functional capacity, and overall quality of life are scarce. This study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of these techniques, combined with conventional pulmonary rehabilitation, to identify the more effective intervention for optimizing COPD treatment.
The trial will be conducted at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, over six months following ethical approval.
This study will provide evidence-based insights into the relative efficacy of Thoracic Squeeze and Manual Diaphragmatic Release techniques. Findings will guide physiotherapists in optimizing rehabilitation protocols for COPD patients, improving respiratory function, functional capacity, and overall quality of life. Moreover, the research aims to contribute to the standardization of physiotherapy practices for COPD management, ensuring consistent and effective patient care.
Study Design
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Allocation
- Randomized
- Intervention Model
- Parallel
- Primary Purpose
- Other
- Masking
- Double (Participant, Outcomes Assessor)
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 40 Years to 60 Years (Adult)
- Sex
- Female
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria
- •Patients with mild or moderate COPD according to the GOLD criteria.GOLD 1: Mild FEV1 ≥ 80% predicted value, GOLD 2: Moderate FEV1 between 50% and 80% predicted value.
- •Age between 40- 60 years.
- •Both male and female.
- •Patients who are willing to give voluntary consent to practice.
Exclusion Criteria
- •Patients with unstable hemodynamic parameters (arterial pressure <100mmHg Systolic and <60 mmHg diastolic blood pressure.
- •Patients who have undergone recent 6 to 12 weeks cardio thoracic or abdominal surgery.
- •Patients who have a recent history of chest wall or abdominal trauma; substantial chest wall deformity History of recent fractures and cognitive impairments.
Arms & Interventions
Thoracic squeeze technique
The Thoracic Squeeze Technique is a manual physiotherapy intervention aimed at improving lung function, airway clearance, and respiratory mechanics. It involves the application of gentle, rhythmic compression to the chest wall during the exhalation phase of breathing, followed by a release. This technique can be performed with the patient in a sitting, semi-reclined, or supine position, depending on their condition and comfort level.
Intervention: Thoracic squeeze technique (Other)
Manual Diaphragmatic release technique
The Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique is a soft tissue manipulation technique used to improve the mobility, function, and efficiency of the diaphragm. It is commonly applied in physiotherapy, particularly in respiratory, musculoskeletal, and manual therapy practices, to address breathing dysfunctions, postural imbalances, and associated pain or discomfort.
Intervention: Manual diaphragmatic release technique (Other)
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Functional capacity
Time Frame: 1 week
Six Minute walk test: The 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a simple and practical test used to assess the functional exercise capacity of individuals. It measures the distance an individual can walk quickly on a flat hard surface in a period of six minutes. The test is commonly used in patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD.
Respiratory parameter FEV1/FVC ratio
Time Frame: 1 week
The Gold standard tool used in the diagnosis of COPD is spirometry. In today GOLD guidelines the diagnosis of pulmonary function test based on a bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio of less than 0. 7.
Respiratory parameter Forced Expiratory Volume
Time Frame: 1 week
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1 measures the volume of air that can be forcefully exhaled in the first second serving as an indicator of airway obstruction severity.
Respiratory parameter Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
Time Frame: 1 week
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) the total volume of air exhale during a forced breath assessing overall lung capacity.
Secondary Outcomes
- Chest excursion(1 week)
- Quality of life self-administered questionnaire(3 weeks)