The Immediate Effect of Chest Mobilization Technique on Chest Expansion in Patients of COPD

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Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is characterized by chronic airflow obstruction. Patients with COPD often experience reductions in lung volumes and vital capacity due to chronic respiratory muscle weakness. Additionally, they may exhibit decreased lung distensibility, leading to restrictions in lung volume. The passive recoil of the thoracic cage is influenced by gross muscle weakness, altering the neutral position at which lung and cage recoil pressures are balanced. Mobilizing rib cage joints is a specific therapeutic goal, as it aims to improve reduced rib cage mobility commonly observed in obstructive lung disease. Method: A study was conducted on COPD patients aged over 40 years, specifically including males with VC<80%. Participants with unstable vital parameters, active lung infections, or those requiring continuous oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation were excluded. The participants were divided into two groups: Group 1 received chest mobilization and breathing exercises, while Group 2 received only breathing exercises. Chest expansion measurements were taken at the 2nd intercostal space, 4th intercostal space, and xiphoid process in both groups before and after the procedures. Result: Result obtained from SPSS20. Mean-age of Group1 was (61.9+6.0) & of Group2 was (62.05+6.1). Comparison between groups found using independent t-tests. There was significant difference of chest-expansion at 2nd IC, 4th IC and xiphoid process between both the groups. Chest-expansion at 2nd IC(M=2.0), 4th IC(M=2.85) and xiphoid process (M=3.43) was increased in group1 than group2 (M=1.58), (M=2.01) & (M=2.49) having significant difference of p<0.05. Conclusion: This study concludes that Chest Wall mobilization has significant effect on Chest-expansion in COPD patients. Hence Chest-Mobilization is definite tool for the improving condition of COPD patients, so it should be included as a part of management in COPD patients with other exercise treatment-programs. Keywords: Chest mobilization, COPD, Chest expansion, Cloth tape measurement