Respiratory Physiotherapy: Often Underutilised

Chest physiotherapy (respiratory physiotherapy) is an evidence-based treatment for many respiratory conditions that is frequently underutilised in India. Faridabad, with its high air pollution from industrial activity and vehicle emissions, has a large population living with COPD, asthma, and other respiratory conditions that significantly benefit from physiotherapy.

Conditions Treated

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): breathing exercises and aerobic conditioning reduce breathlessness and improve exercise capacity. Asthma: breathing pattern retraining (particularly the Buteyko method and nasal breathing) and exercise prescription. Post-cardiac surgery: respiratory physiotherapy prevents post-operative pulmonary complications. Bronchiectasis: airway clearance techniques reduce infection frequency. Post-COVID breathlessness: breathing retraining and gradual exercise rehabilitation. Breathing pattern disorder (dysfunctional breathing): very common, responds excellently to physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy Interventions

Airway Clearance Techniques

Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT), postural drainage, and percussion techniques mobilise and clear secretions in COPD, bronchiectasis, and post-surgical patients.

Inspiratory Muscle Training

Threshold loading devices train the inspiratory muscles (diaphragm, intercostals) like any other muscle -- with progressive resistance. Shown to reduce breathlessness and improve exercise capacity in COPD.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Exercise

Graduated aerobic exercise significantly improves functional capacity in COPD and is the most evidence-based non-pharmacological intervention for the condition.