Effect Of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Of Diaphragm On Maximal Inspiratory Pressure, Maximal Expiratory Pressure And Quality Of Life In Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is characterized by airflow limitation and respiratory muscle dysfunction, leading to reduced inspiratory and expiratory muscle strength and impaired quality of life. Weakness of the diaphragm plays a key role in exercise intolerance and dyspnea in patients with COPD. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has emerged as a potential adjunctive therapy to improve muscle strength and functional outcomes.

This study aims to evaluate the effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation of the diaphragm on maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), and quality of life in patients with COPD. This is a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, interventional clinical trial conducted on patients diagnosed with stable COPD. Eligible participants will be randomly allocated into two groups. The experimental group will receive diaphragm NMES along with conventional physiotherapy, while the control group will receive Sham stimulation along with conventional physiotherapy.

The intervention will be administered for three sessions per week for four weeks treatment period under supervised conditions. Outcome measures including MIP, MEP, and quality of life scores will be assessed at baseline and after completion of the intervention. The results of this study may provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of diaphragm NMES as an adjunct to conventional physiotherapy in improving respiratory muscle strength and quality of life in patients with COPD.