Comparison of Thoracic Squeeze and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique in COPD Patients

NCT06791239 · Status: COMPLETED · Phase: NA · Type: INTERVENTIONAL · Enrollment: 36

Last updated 2025-08-22

No results posted yet for this study

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.

Conditions

  • COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Interventions

OTHER

Thoracic squeeze technique

The Thoracic Squeeze Technique is a manual therapy method used primarily in respiratory physiotherapy to improve lung expansion, enhance respiratory function, and facilitate secretion clearance in patients with respiratory conditions.

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.

Sponsors & Collaborators

  • Riphah International University

    lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

  • Maria Naeem, DPT, MS-CPPT · Riphah International University

Study Design

Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
DOUBLE
Model
PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age
40 Years
Max Age
60 Years
Sex
FEMALE
Healthy Volunteers
No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start
2025-02-01
Primary Completion
2025-05-30
Completion
2025-06-30

Countries

  • Pakistan

Study Locations

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Read the full study record

This page highlights key information. For complete eligibility criteria, study locations, investigator contacts, and the full protocol, visit the original record on ClinicalTrials.gov.

View NCT06791239 on ClinicalTrials.gov