Breathing easier: Chest physical therapy for cystic fibrosis care

For people living with cystic fibrosis (CF), breathing isn’t always easy. CF is a genetic disease that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and other organs. This thick mucus can clog the airways, making it hard to breathe and leading to serious lung infections. It’s a challenging, chronic condition, and managing it every day takes courage and dedication.

If you or a loved one is facing CF, you need effective tools to clear the airways and stay healthy. That’s where chest physical therapy (CPT), also known as airway clearance techniques, comes in. CPT is an essential part of CF care, designed to help make breathing less of a daily struggle and help you enjoy a fuller life. 

How physical therapy can help clear the airways

The main goal of CPT is to help move the thick mucus out of the lungs so you can breathe easier and fight off infection. Physical therapy empowers you with specific techniques you can use daily at home.

Here are the key facets of CPT:

• Postural drainage

This simple technique uses gravity to help mucus move. You lie in different positions, with your head lower than your chest, for example, to allow the mucus to drain from different parts of your lungs toward the larger airways. Your therapist will teach you the best positions for your specific needs. 

• Percussion and vibration

This involves a caregiver, or sometimes you can do it to yourself, gently clapping or patting on the chest wall or back. This rhythmic action loosens the thick mucus, making it easier to cough up. Vibration uses gentle shaking of the chest wall as you exhale to help the mucus move along. 

• Active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT)

This method teaches you a series of controlled breathing exercises. It involves three stages:

• Controlled breathing — Slow, gentle breathing to relax your airways
• Thoracic expansion exercises — Deep breaths to get air behind the mucus
• Forced expiration technique (huffing) — A controlled, short cough-like action to clear the mucus out of your lungs
• Autogenic drainage

This technique uses carefully controlled breathing at different lung volumes to help loosen and move mucus from the smaller airways up to the larger ones. It takes concentration, but it can be very effective for those who master it. 

• Exercise and strengthening

Staying active and maintaining general fitness is incredibly important for lung health. Your physical therapist will help design a safe exercise program that helps build muscle strength and improve lung function, making daily breathing more efficient. 

REPAIR SI provides comprehensive care for cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a lifelong condition, but it doesn’t have to define every breath. With consistent care and expert guidance, many people experience better lung function, reduced infections and a greater sense of control over their health. 

At REPAIR SI, our dedicated team of professionals understands that each person’s journey is unique. Through effective physical therapy treatments designed to support respiratory health and overall well-being, we’re here to help you breathe easier, one session at a time. 

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.