The aims of this study are to evaluate the effects of Diaphragm Release Manual Technique on diaphragm mobility, chest wall kinematics and functional capacity of COPD patients. Methods: Randomized controlled trial (double blinded) with COPD patients, allocated in two group: intervention (IG) who will receive the Diaphragm Release manual technique on 6 non-consecutive sessions and control group (CG), who will receive a sham protocol (light touch) with the same parameters of IG. Outcomes will be evaluated as: immediate and post treatment effects (after 1 and 6 sessions respectively). The primary outcome analysed will be the diaphragm displacement (ultrasonography evaluation) and secondary outcomes will comprise abdominal and chest wall kinematics.