My doctor recommended Chest Physio?
What is Chest Physiotherapy?
Chest physiotherapy is an umbrella term used for physiotherapy treatments and techniques that target acute or chronic respiratory issues (breathing problems). Physiotherapy can help treat various conditions including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, acute pneumonia, chronic asthma, pre-post op surgery and chest trauma such as rib fractures/torn cartridge just to name a few. Chest physiotherapy is available in both a hospital (inpatient) and private practice (outpatient) setting.
Your GP will often refer you with a chest x ray and confirmed diagnosis to help guide the assessment and treatment progress.
Signs and symptoms of a respiratory issue that may benefit from Chest Physio:
- Shortness of breath
- Feelings of fatigue, lethargy
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Difficulty taking a deep breath in or feeling tightness in chest when breathing
- Wet, moist, non-productive cough
- Difficulties coughing up secretions (generally thick, green sputum)
- Decreased ability to expand chest wall with breathing
Note: if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms that is not diagnosed by a doctor, please seek medical assistance for an assessment/treatment.
Why Chest Physiotherapy?
Chest physiotherapy is beneficial when breathing becomes difficult due to poor inspiratory (inhale) and expiratory (exhale) function due to an underlying respiratory condition. Poor breathing or shortness of breath can be due to the decreased ability to move secretions or sputum to the larger airways to be coughed up.
Physiotherapy Can help!
A Physiotherapist can use several different techniques to improve your breathing and ability to cough up secretions under the guidance of your GP or specialist. Techniques may include manual percussions and vibrations, postural drainage positioning, airway clearance techniques, active breathing exercises, incentive spirometry and gentle cardiorespiratory exercises.
If you have any questions or require further information on chest physiotherapy, please feel free to phone 4728 2116 or email admin@physioonross.com.au.
