Abstract
BACKGROUND: Diaphragmatic release technique and thoracolumbar manipulation have been found effective in restoring normal diaphragmatic movement in healthy and diseased populations. Smoking has deleterious effects on human systems, including the musculoskeletal system.
OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of diaphragmatic release technique and thoracolumbar manipulation on diaphragm muscle strength in healthy smokers.
METHODS: A double-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted on 30 asymptomatic healthy smokers randomly assigned into two groups [intervention group (IG) and sham group (SG)] with 15 participants each. The IG received thoracolumbar manipulation and diaphragmatic release techniques, while the SG received no active treatment. The outcome measure was sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP).
RESULTS: The IG showed a significant increase in the SNIP with a mean difference of 20.13 cmH(2)O (95% CI: 13.62-26.64; P < 0.001), while the SG had a reduction in the SNIP value -3.27 cmH(2)O (95% CI: -0.65 to -5.89; P = 0.02). Diaphragmatic release technique and thoracolumbar manipulation significantly improved SNIP values immediately after the intervention, with a between-group difference of 31.07 cmH(2)O (95% CI: 15.26-46.87; P < 0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: Diaphragmatic release technique and thoracolumbar manipulation increased the diaphragm strength in healthy adult smokers, suggesting its potential utility in the management of participants with reduced respiratory muscle strength.