Description

Individuals will be evaluated on two non-consecutive days (7 days apart). On the first visit, wil be obtained: clinical and anthropometric data and assessed clinical control [COPD Assessment Test™(CAT)], health-related quality of life [Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire (CRQ)], and anxiety and depression levels [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)]. Patients will also perform a complete pulmonary function test. After, the volunteers will receive a triaxial accelerometer to assess their physical activity level (PAL) and will be instructed to return after seven days. On the second visit, patients will undergo the Incremental Shuttle Walking Test (ISWT), and the Endurance Shuttle Walking Test (ESWT), without ET.

After the assessments, the individuals will be randomized. Randomization will be computer generated (www.randomization.com) by an investigator who will not be involved in individual recruitment, evaluation, or intervention. The allocation of individuals will be secret using consecutive numbered, sealed, and opaque envelopes (concealed allocation). Initial and post-intervention assessments will be performed by an investigator who will not be involved in the recruitment, evaluation, or intervention. After inclusion, individuals will start a pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program for eight weeks; twice a week, individuals in the ET group will have the tape applied at the beginning of each session and removed at the end. After completing the 8-week PR period, individuals will undergo the same tests performed in two visits.