Respiratory Physiotherapy: Why Taking 10 Deep Breaths Isn’t Enough

Many people think respiratory physiotherapy means taking a few deep breaths a day. That is a common mistake. A respiratory physiotherapist doesn’t begin by telling you “take 10 deep breaths”: they begin by getting to know your situation.

First, a full assessment

Before suggesting any exercise, the physiotherapist reviews your condition:

• How you breathe at rest and during effort.
• How you move and what your functional capacity is in daily life.
• Whether there are secretions and whether you manage to clear them.
• How you tolerate effort.
• The most relevant clinical and medical information in your case.

Then, the right strategies for you

Based on that assessment, the tools that make sense in your case are chosen. These include:

• Targeted breathing exercises.
• Early mobilisation, to get moving again safely as soon as possible.
• Progressive physical training.
• Techniques for an effective cough when secretions are retained.
• In certain patients and settings, positive pressure devices or techniques.

The key word: individualisation

Respiratory physiotherapy is not a collection of exercises that work the same for everyone. Two people with the same diagnosis may need very different treatments. That is why each plan is tailor-made and adjusted as you progress.

If you need respiratory physiotherapy, you can come to the Good Fit gym in La Vall d’Uixó or have your sessions at home in Valencia. Book your appointment here.

The information in this article is for general information purposes and does not replace the individual assessment of a healthcare professional.