Respiratory Physiotherapy FAQ’s

What is respiratory physiotherapy? Many people don’t know that physiotherapists work with respiratory conditions but in reality, like with anything that moves in the body, the muscles and joints of the ribcage are doing all the heavy lifting. And where there are moving parts there are physios!

We’ve compiled this list of FAQ’s to help you gain some insight into what respiratory physio is and how it can help with the conditions you’re experiencing.

pursed lip breathing - Respiratory Physio FAQ's

Q: Who is respiratory physiotherapy for?

A: Many people with chronic respiratory diseases may benefit from respiratory physiotherapy. Some of these conditions may include (but are not limited to):

  • Bronchiectasis
  • Post respiratory infection
  • Asthma and emphysema
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Post surgery or rib injury
  • Stress and anxiety

Q: Why is respiratory physiotherapy important?

A: One of the main goals of respiratory physiotherapy is to help keep your airways clear and free of phlegm and assist in managing shortness of breath. Many conditions can lead to a build up of phlegm or mucus within the airways, which not only make it harder to breathe, but can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and infections. Infections can lead to scarring and damage of the airways, which in turn leads to greater phlegm build ups.

Q: Why is respiratory physiotherapy important?

A: One of the main goals of respiratory physiotherapy is to help keep your airways clear and free of phlegm and assist in managing shortness of breath. Many conditions can lead to a build up of phlegm or mucus within the airways, which not only make it harder to breathe, but can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and infections. Infections can lead to scarring and damage of the airways, which in turn leads to greater phlegm build ups.

Depositphotos 132778694 s 2019 - Respiratory Physio FAQ's

Q: What does a physiotherapist do for respiratory conditions?

A: Physiotherapists use a range of techniques to help you with your condition. Respiratory physiotherapy relies on teaching patients several self management techniques, as well as hands on therapy, in order to help clear secretions and improve their breathing. Based on your respiratory needs, your physio can guide you towards what is right for you.

Q: What breathing exercises will I learn?

A: The main breathing exercise you might learn is called an Active Cycle of Breathing Techniques (ACBT). ACBTs are common respiratory physiotherapy breathing exercises that can be performed at home and throughout the day. These breathing techniques are easy to perform and help: i) regulate breathing, ii) expand the lungs, iii) clear secretions. The three main components of ACBTs are gentle breathing control, thoracic expansion exercises, and huffs. Sometimes, ACBTs can be combined with a PEP device in order to provide even greater assistance to your clearance techniques.

Q: What is PEP?/Are there devices I can use to help with my treatments?

A: Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) is a common technique used in respiratory physiotherapy to improve airflow in the lungs and help clear secretions. PEP therapy utilises a simple handheld device that you blow into. The PEP device provides resistance to you blowing out, which helps push air much deeper into the lungs than it would otherwise travel. This air can get behind secretions and assist in forcing them out. Some PEP devices also vibrate to further help clearance of secretions. Speak to your physiotherapist to see which is best for you.

Let Graceville Physio help you with your respiratory physio needs.

Our physiotherapists are experienced with respiratory physio, both in person and via online physio appointments We can help you breathe easier and combat any long-term effects from your condition. Get in touch with our tea today or book a physio appointment now.

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