Respiratory, pulmonary and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy is an highly specialised area within physiotherapy. It specialises in the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of clients with diseases, injuries or conditions of the lungs and/or the heart. It is also widely recognised that appropriate exercise can be effective in disease prevention and is integral to the management of those with a variety of cardiothoracic conditions.
Common conditions include; Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD – Bronchiectasis; Emphysema; Bronchitis); Congestive heart failure (CCF); respiratory infection (pneumonia); Hypertension; Angina; Heart Disease; Heart or lung injury or surgery.
People with acute heart or lung conditions or flare-ups are often admitted to hospital and may encounter a respiratory or cardiorespiratory physiotherapist in hospital. Physiotherapy input may or may not continue at home on discharge or as an outpatient.
Depending on your needs, physiotherapy treatment may include;
- Deep breathing exercises (to encourage increased lung volumes and prevent lung infection and collapse)
- Hands on techniques and breathing facilitation exercises (to expand lung capacity)
- Chest percussions and vibrations (to help loosen secretions and make coughing for chest clearance easier)
- Breathing and circulation exercises (to prevent further respiratory or vascular complications such as chest infection, and deep vein thrombosis)
- Mobility assistance (to move safely in bed, sit up, stand and walk)
- Mobility aids (advice, prescription, and instruction on how to safely use a walking aid)
- Individually tailored exercises (to control breathing patterns, improve breathlessness, build muscle strength, build muscle endurance and improve general health and wellbeing)
- Ongoing fitness programmes and supervision of active rehabilitation
If you would like to find out more or arrange an appointment please get in touch.