Respiratory Physiotherapy

During the winter months we see an influx of patients needing respiratory physiotherapy to help assist in recovery from common winter illnesses that can affect the lungs. Here’s a little more about this type of physio and how we can help.

What is respiratory physiotherapy?

Respiratory physiotherapy also known as chest physiotherapy, is an area of physio that focuses on the lungs and movement of the ribs and diaphragm.

Our physiotherapists provide treatment options for patients dealing with a range of lung conditions and provide treatment/exercises to improve their lung health and/or lung capacity. This can prove to be invaluable for many people struggling with chronic health issues and related breathing issues.

Who can benefit from this type of physiotherapy?

Anyone that has a problem with their lung function and breathing. There are many people with chronic illness and disability that can suffer from a buildup of mucus in the lungs. This build-up makes it difficult for patients to fill up their lungs and take in enough oxygen.

In turn, this can have a severe impact on general health and well-being due to a lack of oxygen in the blood. Respiratory physiotherapy can work to reduce these blockages, improve the flow of air and rib movement and improve the health and well-being of patients.

How does respiratory physio work?

Your physio will assess the situation by listening to the chest and seeing how much movement occurs in the ribs and diaphragm. They can determine the airflow into the lungs and areas that are badly affected by mucus. Once they have a clearer understanding of your condition, they can begin to recommend exercises and treatment options.Some of these techniques are quite simple in theory.

Some will recommend breathing exercises that can maximise the efficiency of your breath. This could have a big impact on oxygen intake. They can also advise on the best position to take to drain mucus from specific areas of the lung.

Many of these solutions are exercises that patients can complete at home. However, some people with severe impairments may benefit from the use of a specialist device.

What is chest percussion?

Chest percussion is a common, hand-on physiotherapy treatment that can help. Physios will use a drumming effect on the chest to shake the mucus free, but may also use other forms of vibration, deep breathing and coughing techniques to speed up the process. This is a skilled, intensive process, but one that can lead to great results..