Context: Respiratory and peripheral muscle dysfunctions seen in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) cause ventilatory limitation, dyspnea and inactivity, which then result in a reduction in functional capacity. Kinesio Taping (KT) is a rehabilitative technique performed by the cutaneous application of a special elastic tape, thus increasing muscle activation and blood circulation.
Objectives: To investigate the effects of KT application that was applied on respiratory muscles to improve pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity in patients with COPD.
Patients and methods: In total, 27 COPD patients (16 in KT group, 11 in control group) were included. Thoracic KT was applied to facilitate the respiratory muscles along the subcostal area for KT group. Deep breathing exercises were applied to both groups. Interventions were done 2 days a week, through 6 weeks. Pulmonary function and maximal respiratory mouth pressures were measured with a spirometer. Severity of dyspnea and fatigue were assessed with Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale and Modified Borg Scale, respectively. Functional capacity was evaluated using six-minute walk test.
Results: Percentage predicted of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1%), peak expiratory flow (PEF) value, percentage predicted of peak expiratory flow (PEF%) and walking distance were significantly increased in KT group (p = 0.038, p = 0.011, p = 0.013, p = 0.004, respectively). The severity of dyspnea and fatigue were reduced in KT group (p < 0.05). There was no significant change for other variables in-group and between-group analyses (p > 0.05).
Conclusions: Thoracic KT may be beneficial for improving pulmonary function and functional capacity in patients with COPD.
Keywords: COPD; Functional capacity; Kinesio taping; Pulmonary function; Respiratory muscle strength.
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