Effects of a diaphragm stretching technique on pulmonary function in healthy participants: A randomized-controlled trial

BackgroundManual therapy has traditionally been included among the therapeutic approaches to respiratory pathologies.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a diaphragm stretching on pulmonary function and respiratory pressures in healthy adults.DesignRandomized placebo-controlled trial using a between-groups design.SettingThe study was conducted at a university laboratory.MethodsThe outcomes were evaluated at baseline and immediately after treatment. Participants' spirometry was assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and also at 5 and 20 min post-treatment.ParticipantsA final sample of eighty healthy adults was included. Participants were randomized into two groups: experimental or placebo group.ResultsThe data analysis revealed that all measures significantly (p < 0.05) improved from pre- to post-test in the experimental group.ConclusionsDiaphragm stretching is able to increase maximal respiratory pressures, forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in the first second.