Immediate Effects of Kinesio Taping on Lung Functions, Chest Expansion and Dyspnoea in COPD Patients

Abstract

Background: Dyspnoea is a major symptom of COPD and an independent predictor of mortality. It iscaused by mechanical alterations adapted by shortened or deconditioned musculature.There is insufficientevidenceregarding the efficacy of kinesio taping on the symptoms posed by respiratory conditions like COPD.This study investigates the immediate effects of kinesiology taping done for pectoralis major and rhomboidmajor, on chest expansion and lung functions along with dyspnoea. Methodology: By convenient sampling,30 stable COPD patients with mild to moderate stage affection as per GOLD criteria, and having complaintsof dyspnoea were randomly divided in two groups. Group A received kinesio taping along with conventionalphysiotherapy, group B was the control group where only conventional physiotherapy exercises were giventwice a day for 3 days. Eligible patients were assessed for their lung functions, chest expansion and dyspnea.Results: Data analysis within the groups as well as between the groups was done using the WINPEPI andPRIMERsoftware.Between groups comparison for lung functions showed significant improvement (p<0.05)for FEV1, FVC and PEFR. Pre and post comparison ofrespiratory rate and SpO2between the groups showedsignificant improvement (p<0.05). Conclusion: There was a significant improvement in the experimentalgroup which suggest that kinesio tape application is beneficial in improving lung function and reducing rateof perceived exertion.