Effect of joint mobilization and stretching on respiratory function and spinal movement in very severe COPD with thoracic kyphosis

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of joint mobilization and stretching of the thoracic cage for very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on a patient with thoracic kyphosis. [Subject and Methods] The subject is a 73-year-old female COPD patient with thoracic kyphosis. The intervention methods were comprised of joint mobilization and stretching. The program consisted of 30 minute sessions three days per week for eight weeks. Respiratory function, spinal curve, and spinal movement (thoracic and lumbar spine) were measured. [Results] Joint mobilization and stretching did not result in noticeable changes in the respiratory function of the patient; however, positive changes were observed, including decreased thoracic kyphosis curve, increased lumbar lordosis curve, and increased spinal movement. [Conclusion] The results of the analysis show that the patient’s age, body mass index, duration of the disease, COPD level, and posture should be considered in the clinical decision to perform pulmonary physical therapy for patients with complicated diseases such as COPD with thoracic kyphosis.