Osmosis video - Respiratory: Chest physiotherapy

Chest physiotherapy (CPT) is a technique performed by certain healthcare workers to help people with impaired mucus clearance and improve breathing. It is often used for patients with lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia. CPT includes several maneuvers like postural drainage, percussion, vibration, and shaking.

Postural drainage uses gravity to help clear lung secretions by placing the individual in different positions. Each position is followed by percussion, vibration, and shaking over the chest wall to help mobilize the secretions. Finally, the client has to cough forcefully to eliminate the secretions. Some individuals may experience fatigue or shortness of breath due to CPT. These individuals may use the Acapella device, which is a hand-held respiratory device that clients can use independently. The device helps in mucus clearance by combining positive expiratory pressure with airway vibrations.