The effect of diaphragmatic stretch technique on diaphragmatic excursion in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable pulmonary disease that has extensive pulmonary and extrapulmonary pathological adaptations. Few of these pathological changes are airway remodelling, persistent airflow limitation, finally leading to pulmonary hyperinflation. The diaphragm, which is the primary muscle of inspiration, is put through an excessive load due to the hyperinflation leading to its flattening, shortening and contraction at a mechanical disadvantage. These patho-mechanical changes may lead to an increase in the work of breathing, a reduction in exercise tolerance and functional capacity, which makes it a potential target for therapeutic intervention. This single group pre and post-intervention study are aimed to find the effects of Diaphragmatic stretch technique on a diaphragmatic excursion in patients with mild or moderate COPD. The intervention was performed on the patients for two sets consisting of 10 breaths each with a 1minute interval in between. The outcome measures recorded were diaphragmatic excursion and chest expansion which were taken before and immediately after the intervention. Results of the study showed a positive and statistically significant increase in the outcome measures following the intervention. The Diaphragmatic Stretch Technique has a considerable influence on patients with mild or moderate COPD without causing any exacerbations or adverse effects.