Effects of thoracic kinesio taping on pulmonary functions, respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity in COPD patients: a pilot randomized controlled study

Abstract

Introduction: Kinesio taping (KT) is a rehabilitative technique performed by the cutaneous application of a special elastic tape, thus increasing muscle activation and blood circulation. Aims and objectives: To investigate the effects of thoracic KT on pulmonary functions and functional capacity in COPD patients. Methods: Clinically stable, 22 COPD patients were randomly assigned to either a KT group (n=15) or a control group (n=7). KT was applied anteriorly and posteriorly to facilitate the respiratory muscles along the subcostal area and “Web” cut KT was applied to upper trapezius muscles for KT group. Deep breathing exercises were applied to both groups. Interventions were done 2 days a week, through 6 weeks. A spirometer was used to evaluate pulmonary functions and maximal respiratory mouth pressures. Six-minute walk test (6MWT) was used to assess functional exercise capacity. The presence of respiratory symptoms (dyspnea, cough, sputum) were questioned. Assessments were done before treatment and after the sixth week. Results: The mean ages of patients in KT and control groups were 65.2±7.3 and 67.0±12.9, respectively. PEF values, percentage predicted of PEF and 6MWT walking distance were significantly increased in KT group (p=0.020, p=0.017, p=0.007, respectively). The presence of dyspnea and cough were significantly decreased in KT group (p=0.046, p=0.02, respectively). No other statistical significance was found for in-group and between-group analyses (p>0.05). Conclusion: KT may be beneficial for improving PEF and functional exercise capacity, and decreasing the presence of dyspnea and cough in COPD patients.