Common Respiratory Problems

• Asthma

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• Pneumonia and Bronchitis

• Post-COVID breathlessness

Goals of Physiotherapy

• Improve breathing capacity

• Clear chest congestion and mucus

• Strengthen breathing muscles

• Reduce breathlessness during daily activities

Physiotherapy Treatments

1. Breathing Exercises

• Diaphragmatic Breathing: A deep breathing technique that improves lung efficiency.

• Pursed Lip Breathing: Helps control breathing rate and reduces breathlessness.

• Segmental Breathing: Helps expand specific areas of the lungs.

2. Airway Clearance Techniques

• Chest Percussion: Helps loosen mucus in the lungs.

• Postural Drainage: Uses different body positions to drain lung secretions.

• Huffing & Cough Techniques: Training for effective coughing.

3. Chest Mobility Exercises

• Chest expansion exercises to improve rib cage mobility.

• Thoracic stretching to support better breathing.

4. Endurance and Conditioning

• Walking and light aerobic exercises to improve stamina.

• Gradual activity progression to reduce fatigue.

5. Postural Training and Education

• Correct posture for better lung expansion.

• Breathing control techniques for daily life.

Frequency and Duration

• Physiotherapy sessions are recommended 3–5 days per week.

• Daily breathing exercises at home are essential.

• Improvement in breathing and endurance can be seen within 4–8 weeks.