COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)NCT06791239
Comparison of Thoracic Squeeze and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique in COPD Patients
A study testing Thoracic squeeze technique and Manual diaphragmatic release technique in people with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
The goal of this randomized control trial is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of two physiotherapy techniques-Thoracic Squeeze Technique (TST) and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique (MDRT)-on improving respiratory parameters, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with mild to moderate Chronic… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 40 to 60 years, women only
- Conditions the study is for
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- What is being tested?
- Thoracic squeeze technique and Manual diaphragmatic release technique
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 36 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 1 Feb 2025to 30 Jun 2025
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 40 to 60 years
- Women only
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Patients with mild or moderate COPD according to the GOLD criteria.GOLD 1: Mild FEV1 ≥ 80% predicted value, GOLD 2: Moderate FEV1 between 50% and 80% predicted value.
- Age between 40- 60 years.
- Both male and female.
- Patients who are willing to give voluntary consent to practice.
Who cannot join
- Patients with unstable hemodynamic parameters (arterial pressure <100mmHg Systolic and <60 mmHg diastolic blood pressure.
- Patients who have undergone recent 6 to 12 weeks cardio thoracic or abdominal surgery.
- Patients who have a recent history of chest wall or abdominal trauma; substantial chest wall deformity History of recent fractures and cognitive impairments.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Comparison of Thoracic Squeeze and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique on Respiratory Parameters and Functional Capacity in COPD Patients
The goal of this randomized control trial is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of two physiotherapy techniques-Thoracic Squeeze Technique (TST) and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique (MDRT)-on improving respiratory parameters, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with mild to moderate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Objectives:
Read more
- Assess the impact of TST and MDRT on respiratory parameters (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, and chest expansion).
- Compare the functional capacity outcomes of the two techniques using the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT).
- Evaluate the effects of TST and MDRT on patient wellbeing and daily life through the COPD Assessment Test (CAT).
Study Design:
The study involves 34 participants, divided into two groups (n=17 each) via sealed envelope randomization. Both groups will receive their respective interventions (TST or MDRT) alongside a standardized pulmonary rehabilitation protocol (pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, active cycle of breathing, and endurance exercises). The intervention will be conducted three times per week for three weeks.
Outcome Measures:
Primary outcomes include respiratory parameters assessed through spirometry and chest expansion using a measuring tape. Secondary outcomes include functional capacity (6MWT) and patient wellbeing (CAT scores). Baseline and post-intervention measures will be analyzed using SPSS, employing Mixed ANOVA to determine interaction effects.
Read the detailed description
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the respiratory system that progressively impairs airflow, leading to significant limitations in physical capacity and quality of life. COPD is a global health concern, being the third leading cause of death worldwide, with an increasing prevalence due to aging populations and environmental pollution. Despite advancements in pharmacological treatments, COPD management requires comprehensive rehabilitation strategies, particularly for improving respiratory function and functional capacity.
Two physiotherapy techniques, the Thoracic Squeeze Technique and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique, have been individually employed to address respiratory function in COPD patients. However, direct comparisons of their effectiveness on respiratory parameters, functional capacity, and overall quality of life are scarce. This study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of these techniques, combined with conventional pulmonary rehabilitation, to identify the more effective intervention for optimizing COPD treatment.
The trial will be conducted at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, over six months following ethical approval.
This study will provide evidence-based insights into the relative efficacy of Thoracic Squeeze and Manual Diaphragmatic Release techniques. Findings will guide physiotherapists in optimizing rehabilitation protocols for COPD patients, improving respiratory function, functional capacity, and overall quality of life. Moreover, the research aims to contribute to the standardization of physiotherapy practices for COPD management, ensuring consistent and effective patient care.
- Being tested
- Thoracic squeeze technique, Manual diaphragmatic release technique
- Keywords
- Thoracic squeeze technique, Manual diaphragmatic release technique, COPD, digital spirometry, functional capacity, quality of life
- Medical subject headings
- Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Thoracic squeeze techniqueOther
The Thoracic Squeeze Technique is a manual therapy method used primarily in respiratory physiotherapy to improve lung expansion, enhance respiratory function, and facilitate secretion clearance in patients with respiratory conditions.
Manual diaphragmatic release techniqueOther
The Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique is a soft tissue manipulation technique used to improve the mobility, function, and efficiency of the diaphragm. It is commonly applied in physiotherapy, particularly in respiratory, musculoskeletal, and manual therapy practices, to address breathing dysfunctions, postural imbalances, and associated pain or discomfort.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Thoracic squeeze technique | Experimental | The Thoracic Squeeze Technique is a manual physiotherapy intervention aimed at improving lung function, airway clearance, and respiratory mechanics. It involves the application of gentle, rhythmic compression to the chest wall during the exhalation phase of breathing, followed by a release. This technique can be performed with the patient in a sitting, semi-reclined, or supine position, depending on their condition and comfort level. Receives: Other: Thoracic squeeze technique |
| Manual Diaphragmatic release technique | Experimental | The Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique is a soft tissue manipulation technique used to improve the mobility, function, and efficiency of the diaphragm. It is commonly applied in physiotherapy, particularly in respiratory, musculoskeletal, and manual therapy practices, to address breathing dysfunctions, postural imbalances, and associated pain or discomfort. Receives: Other: Manual diaphragmatic release technique |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Respiratory parameter FEV1/FVC ratio
The Gold standard tool used in the diagnosis of COPD is spirometry. In today GOLD guidelines the diagnosis of pulmonary function test based on a bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio of less than 0. 7.
Measured: 1 week
Respiratory parameter Forced Expiratory Volume
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1 measures the volume of air that can be forcefully exhaled in the first second serving as an indicator of airway obstruction severity.
Measured: 1 week
Respiratory parameter Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) the total volume of air exhale during a forced breath assessing overall lung capacity.
Measured: 1 week
Functional capacity
Six Minute walk test:
The 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a simple and practical test used to assess the functional exercise capacity of individuals. It measures the distance an individual can walk quickly on a flat hard surface in a period of six minutes. The test is commonly used in patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD.
Measured: 1 week
Secondary outcomes (2)
Chest excursion
Chest excursion measurement is a simple clinical test used to assess the mobility of thoracic cage during respiration. This can be particularly useful in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory conditions such as COPD to measure lung expansion. Chest expansion will be measured at three levels; Upper Lobe: at the level of the fourth rib. Middle Lobe: at the level of the xiphoid process. Lower Lobe: at the level of the tenth rib.
Measured: 1 week
Quality of life self-administered questionnaire
The COPD assessment test (CAT) is a self-administered questionnaire that consist of eight questions to explore different symptoms and impacts of COPD. .
Measured: 3 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted24 Jan 2025
- Study start1 Feb 2025
- Primary completion30 May 2025
- Study completion30 Jun 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (1)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)Studies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Riphah International UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 36 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Maria Naeem, DPT, MS-CPPT, Principal investigator, Riphah International University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06791239
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- Sabaoon Ijaz
- Status last verified
- Aug 2025
- First submitted
- 14 Jan 2025
- Last updated
- 22 Aug 2025
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Publications
Braz Junior DS, Dornelas de Andrade A, Teixeira AS, Cavalcanti CA, Morais AB, Marinho PE. Whole-body vibration improves functional capacity and quality of life in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a pilot study. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2015 Jan 12;10:125-32. doi: 10.2147/COPD.S73751. eCollection 2015.
PubMed 25624756
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 22 Aug 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Comparison of Thoracic Squeeze and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique on Respiratory Parameters and Functional Capacity in COPD Patients
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06791239
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- Sabaoon Ijaz
- Keywords
- Thoracic squeeze technique, Manual diaphragmatic release technique, COPD, digital spirometry, functional capacity, quality of life
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 36 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Feb 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 30 May 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 30 Jun 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 24 Jan 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The goal of this randomized control trial is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of two physiotherapy techniques-Thoracic Squeeze Technique (TST) and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique (MDRT)-on improving respiratory parameters, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with mild to moderate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Objectives:
- Assess the impact of TST and MDRT on respiratory parameters (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, and chest expansion).
- Compare the functional capacity outcomes of the two techniques using the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT).
- Evaluate the effects of TST and MDRT on patient wellbeing and daily life through the COPD Assessment Test (CAT).
Study Design:
The study involves 34 participants, divided into two groups (n=17 each) via sealed envelope randomization. Both groups will receive their respective interventions (TST or MDRT) alongside a standardized pulmonary rehabilitation protocol (pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, active cycle of breathing, and endurance exercises). The intervention will be conducted three times per week for three weeks.
Outcome Measures:
Primary outcomes include respiratory parameters assessed through spirometry and chest expansion using a measuring tape. Secondary outcomes include functional capacity (6MWT) and patient wellbeing (CAT scores). Baseline and post-intervention measures will be analyzed using SPSS, employing Mixed ANOVA to determine interaction effects.
Detailed description
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the respiratory system that progressively impairs airflow, leading to significant limitations in physical capacity and quality of life. COPD is a global health concern, being the third leading cause of death worldwide, with an increasing prevalence due to aging populations and environmental pollution. Despite advancements in pharmacological treatments, COPD management requires comprehensive rehabilitation strategies, particularly for improving respiratory function and functional capacity.
Two physiotherapy techniques, the Thoracic Squeeze Technique and Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique, have been individually employed to address respiratory function in COPD patients. However, direct comparisons of their effectiveness on respiratory parameters, functional capacity, and overall quality of life are scarce. This study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of these techniques, combined with conventional pulmonary rehabilitation, to identify the more effective intervention for optimizing COPD treatment.
The trial will be conducted at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, over six months following ethical approval.
This study will provide evidence-based insights into the relative efficacy of Thoracic Squeeze and Manual Diaphragmatic Release techniques. Findings will guide physiotherapists in optimizing rehabilitation protocols for COPD patients, improving respiratory function, functional capacity, and overall quality of life. Moreover, the research aims to contribute to the standardization of physiotherapy practices for COPD management, ensuring consistent and effective patient care.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind (participant, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Thoracic squeeze technique | Experimental | Other: Thoracic squeeze techniqueThe Thoracic Squeeze Technique is a manual physiotherapy intervention aimed at improving lung function, airway clearance, and respiratory mechanics. It involves the application of gentle, rhythmic compression to the chest wall during the exhalation phase of breathing, followed by a release. This technique can be performed with the patient in a sitting, semi-reclined, or supine position, depending on their condition and comfort level. |
| Manual Diaphragmatic release technique | Experimental | Other: Manual diaphragmatic release techniqueThe Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique is a soft tissue manipulation technique used to improve the mobility, function, and efficiency of the diaphragm. It is commonly applied in physiotherapy, particularly in respiratory, musculoskeletal, and manual therapy practices, to address breathing dysfunctions, postural imbalances, and associated pain or discomfort. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 40 to 60 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Patients with mild or moderate COPD according to the GOLD criteria.GOLD 1: Mild FEV1 ≥ 80% predicted value, GOLD 2: Moderate FEV1 between 50% and 80% predicted value.
- Age between 40- 60 years.
- Both male and female.
- Patients who are willing to give voluntary consent to practice.
Key exclusion criteria (3 listed)
- Patients with unstable hemodynamic parameters (arterial pressure <100mmHg Systolic and <60 mmHg diastolic blood pressure.
- Patients who have undergone recent 6 to 12 weeks cardio thoracic or abdominal surgery.
- Patients who have a recent history of chest wall or abdominal trauma; substantial chest wall deformity History of recent fractures and cognitive impairments.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Thoracic squeeze techniqueThe Thoracic Squeeze Technique is a manual therapy method used primarily in respiratory physiotherapy to improve lung expansion, enhance respiratory function, and facilitate secretion clearance in patients with respiratory conditions. | Other | Thoracic squeeze technique |
| Manual diaphragmatic release techniqueThe Manual Diaphragmatic Release Technique is a soft tissue manipulation technique used to improve the mobility, function, and efficiency of the diaphragm. It is commonly applied in physiotherapy, particularly in respiratory, musculoskeletal, and manual therapy practices, to address breathing dysfunctions, postural imbalances, and associated pain or discomfort. | Other | Manual Diaphragmatic release technique |
Primary outcome
Respiratory parameter FEV1/FVC ratio
Time frame: 1 week
The Gold standard tool used in the diagnosis of COPD is spirometry. In today GOLD guidelines the diagnosis of pulmonary function test based on a bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio of less than 0. 7.
Respiratory parameter Forced Expiratory Volume
Time frame: 1 week
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1 measures the volume of air that can be forcefully exhaled in the first second serving as an indicator of airway obstruction severity.
Respiratory parameter Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
Time frame: 1 week
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) the total volume of air exhale during a forced breath assessing overall lung capacity.
Functional capacity
Time frame: 1 week
Six Minute walk test: The 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a simple and practical test used to assess the functional exercise capacity of individuals. It measures the distance an individual can walk quickly on a flat hard surface in a period of six minutes. The test is commonly used in patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD.
2 secondary outcomes
Chest excursion
Time frame: 1 week
Quality of life self-administered questionnaire
Time frame: 3 weeks
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 22 Aug 2025.
- Background: PubMed 25624756Braz Junior DS, Dornelas de Andrade A, Teixeira AS, Cavalcanti CA, Morais AB, Marinho PE. Whole-body vibration improves functional capacity and quality of life in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a pilot study. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2015 Jan 12;10:125-32. doi: 10.2147/COPD.S73751. eCollection 2015.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
Related trials for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
Active, not recruiting
Symptoms and Functions in Patients With COPD and Chronic Bronchitis Switching From CIG to THS
COPD, Smoking
Not yet recruitingPhase 2/3
An Open-Label Extension Study to Evaluate Inhaled Treprostinil SMI in Participants With Pulmonary Hypertension Associated With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (PH-COPD)
Pulmonary Hypertension Associated With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Not yet recruiting
The Aim of the Study is to Decipher the Alterations in Signalling Pathways of Skeletal Muscle Stem Cells (Satellite Cells (SCs)) in Individuals With COPD, as Well as to Examine the Effect of Exercise Training on SCs.
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), Sarcopenia in Elderly
Not yet recruitingPhase 2
Study of Treprostinil Administered Via Soft Mist Inhaler (SMI) in Participants With Pulmonary Hypertension Associated With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (PH-COPD)
Pulmonary Hypertension Associated With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Active, not recruitingPhase 1
A Study for GSK3862995B in Healthy Participants and Participants With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Maria Naeem, DPT, MS-CPPT principal investigator
Riphah International University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Thoracic squeeze technique and Manual diaphragmatic release technique in people with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 3 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 22 Aug 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Respiratory parameter FEV1/FVC ratio (time frame: 1 week). The study lists 4 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06791239, which also lists 1 linked publication.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 22 Aug 2025.