Effects of Diaphragmatic Kinesio Taping Combined With Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Diaphragm Muscle Thickness in Intensive Care Patients - NCT07929038

This prospective, three-arm, randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of diaphragmatic Kinesio taping applied in addition to pulmonary rehabilitation on diaphragm muscle thickness and function in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. A total of 48 patients admitted to the ICU due to respiratory distress will be recruited and randomly assigned to three groups: pulmonary rehabilitation combined with diaphragmatic Kinesio taping, pulmonary rehabilitation alone, and a control group receiving routine patient education. The interventions will be administered over a three-day period. Diaphragm muscle thickness during inspiration and expiration, diaphragm excursion, and diaphragm thickening fraction will be assessed using ultrasonography at baseline and after the intervention period. Cough-related quality of life, anxiety, and depression will also be evaluated using validated questionnaires. The study aims to determine whether adding diaphragmatic Kinesio taping to pulmonary rehabilitation provides additional benefits in preserving diaphragm muscle thickness and function in critically ill patients.