Respiratory physiotherapy consists of improving the breathing process through a set of techniques and maneuvers. These techniques facilitate the expulsion of unnecessary mucus, improve the functioning of the respiratory muscles and the efficiency of each breath. This treatment must be applied by a registered physiotherapist, with specific training in respiratory physiotherapy.
In what kind of treatments is it indicated?
Respiratory physiotherapy is very useful for people suffering from any of the following pathologies:
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
- Bronchiectasis.
- Parenchymal pathological processes.
- Cystic fibrosis.
- Alterations of the thoracic and diaphragmatic wall.
- Occupational lung disease.
- Pneumonia.
- Atelectasis.
- Neuromuscular diseases.
- Childhood respiratory diseases: bronchiolitis, asthma or acute respiratory infection, among others.
Likewise, people who have undergone surgery with pulmonary complications, or patients who have been confined to bed for a long period of time or who have been on mechanical ventilation may also benefit. This second group includes people who have suffered from Covid-19 during the pandemic, for example.
What types of exercises are available?
The techniques used in respiratory physiotherapy involve mobilization of the chest wall and normalization of the muscles involved. If necessary, by means of conscious coughing or reflexes, the expulsion of mucus and secretions that hinder proper breathing is facilitated. All these techniques are carried out in an environment of total safety and by means of maneuvers that in no case are painful.
The benefits of respiratory physiotherapy
Respiratory physiotherapy helps to reduce the symptoms of different pathologies such as those mentioned above. It is also worth mentioning that it facilitates the effectiveness of medication and, specifically in children, they improve sooner than those who do not undergo this physiotherapy treatment. When the children improve, we also manage to reduce the level of stress caused by these situations at home, which is beneficial for all involved.