Cardiorespiratory rehabilitation
Cardiorespiratory rehabilitation
Cardiorespiratory physiotherapy is a type of physiotherapy that consists of the prevention & rehabilitation of people with heart and lung disease. Some symptoms of these can appear as shortness of breath, a persistent cough, difficulty breathing or the reduced ability to exercise.
Common cardiorespiratory conditions include:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – Asthma and Emphysema
- Bronchiectasis
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
- Respiratory Infections, i.e. Pneumonia
- Hypertension
- Interstitial Lung disease
- Peripheral Vascular Disease
- Angina
- Myocardial infarction (Heart Attack)
- Heart or lung injury/surgery
Current evidence shows that appropriate exercises are a helpful approach in treating these conditions and is vital to the management of those with a variety of cardiorespiratory conditions. A Physiotherapist will undertake a comprehensive assessment of your cardiorespiratory system, endurance and mobility and will then tailor a treatment program to your specific needs. The goal of this exercise program is 2to control your breathing pattern, build muscle strength and endurance and improve your general health and wellbeing
Depending on the specific cardiorespiratory condition, physiotherapy treatment may include:
- Deep Breathing Exercises: to encourage increased lung volumes and improve gaseous exchange
- Strength and conditioning and endurance exercise training
- Hands-on Methods and Breathing Assistance Exercises: to expand your lung capacity
- Percussions and Vibrations: to help loosen secretions and make coughing easier
- Coughing and Breathing Approaches: to help cough and manage your shortness of breath
- Breathing and Circulation Exercises: to prevent further respiratory and vascular complications such as chest infection and deep venous thrombosis (DVTs)
