Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) show a persistent local and systemic inflammatory pattern which stimulates negative remodeling of the airways. Globally, chronic respiratory disease is the third leading cause of death. One of the rehabilitative strategies used to improve the symptoms of COPD patients is the use of lymphatic pump manipulation; this procedure aims to reduce the concentration of pro-inflammatory substances. However, research results relating to this technique are contradictory. This article reviews the mechanisms that determine lymphatic flow, lymphatic lung anatomy, and the lymphatic response to respiratory pathology. Also highlighted is the manual approach to the mediastinum which can be used to improve the lymphatic and inflammatory response in COPD. Finally, new manual strategies have been discussed with which lymphatic flow in patients with COPD can be improved.
Keywords: copd; fascia; inflammation; lymph; lymphatic pump; osteopathic.