chest
conditions
What is chest physiotherapy?
Chartered Physiotherapists have the ability to help people with chest conditions that need help to remove excess phlegm (mucus) from their airways, improve breathing techniques and improve oxygen flow to the lungs.
What does chest physiotherapy treat?
Chest physiotherapy can help a number of conditions including:
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Pneumonia
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Chest infections
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Cystic fibrosis
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
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Asthma
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Increased mucus production due to being bed bound or inactive
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Keeping airways clear after surgery
What is involved in
chest physiotherapy?
The Chartered physiotherapist can teach you breathing exercises, for you to practice in your own time, which will help keep your airways clear. They can also use techniques known as percussion, vibrations, and postural drainage to help loosen the secretions. For those people who are unable to generate an effective enough cough to get rid of the phlegm, assisted coughing is a technique that can be used.
They can also advise on any breathing equipment that may be of help to improve oxygen flow or make the mucus looser and reduce shortness of breath.
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Prior to each treatment, a variety of assessment techniques will be performed, such as auscultation using a stethoscope to listen to your chest.
Do I need chest physiotherapy?
If you are having problems getting rid of phlegm, have shortness of breath, or had a recent operation involving the heart or lungs then it is worth being checked by a chest physiotherapist.
Does chest physiotherapy work?
Yes, it does and better for some conditions than others. It works particularly well for conditions in which a lot of phlegm is being produced and needs to be rid of. If there is a build-up of phlegm that remains in the lungs, there is an increased risk of developing a chest infection.
Looking for chest physiotherapy?
Our team is composed of experienced physiotherapists who provide thorough assessments and effective treatments for the chest for both adults and children in the comfort of their own homes, care homes or schools.
