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

Background: Dyspnoea is a major symptom of COPD and an independent predictor of mortality. It is caused by mechanical alterations adapted by shortened or deconditioned musculature.There is insufficient evidenceregarding 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 rhomboid major, 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 complaints of dyspnoea were randomly divided in two groups. Group A received kinesio taping along with conventional physiotherapy, group B was the control group where only conventional physiotherapy exercises were given twice 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 and PRIMERsoftware.Between groups comparison for lung functions showed significant improvement (p<0.05) for FEV₁, FVC and PEFR. Pre and post comparison ofrespiratory rate and SpO2 between the groups showed significant improvement (p<0.05). Conclusion: There was a significant improvement in the experimental group which suggest that kinesio tape application is beneficial in improving lung function and reducing rate of perceived exertion.