Physiotherapy is used to treat the symptoms of conditions that affect various body systems. It is especially important in treating the symptoms of cystic fibrosis, a respiratory ailment that is considered the most commonly inherited condition among children in the UK. Regular adherence to physiotherapy is needed for the treatment to be effective.

In an article for Medical Xpress, researchers from the University of Stirling discuss a project they have initiated that aims to increase the support received by cystic fibrosis patients and their primary caregivers in physiotherapy treatment regimens:

"Young people with cystic fibrosis have to adhere to a daily regimen of treatment for their condition which some children and parents find lengthy and difficult.

Cystic fibrosis – a life-shortening, genetic condition which causes breathing difficulties, chest infections, digestive problems and malnutrition – affects approximately one in every 2500 babies born in the UK. Damage to the lungs is exacerbated by poor adherence to treatment - especially in relation to chest physiotherapy.

The support tool will encourage children with cystic fibrosis and their parents to view chest physiotherapy as a positive experience by providing them with a bank of novel and enjoyable strategies - such as activities, games and songs."

Cystic fibrosis is just one of the respiratory conditions that are regularly treated with chest physiotherapy. General practitioners and other physicians in the area would usually refer patients with these ailments to Ealing physiotherapy experts. These practises work hand in hand in the holistic management of the patient’s condition.

Many Britons are no strangers to respiratory diseases, including asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and aspiration pneumonia, among others. Difficulty of breathing from sputum accumulation, and sticky secretions are common manifestations of these respiratory ailments.

Manual techniques in physiotherapy, such as chest vibration and percussion, work by dislodging secretion blockages to clear the airways. Special equipment, breathing exercises and postural drainage are also used to expand the lungs and move the secretions effectively. Aside from clearing airways, physiotherapy exercises also promote relaxation and pain relief.

Patients with respiratory conditions can also benefit from other physiotherapy modalities or treatments, aside from basic chest physiotherapy. The patient’s pulmonary rehabilitation may also include exercise regimens. The proper pacing and techniques for these exercise programmes may be supervised and directed by Ealing physio therapists.

Established physio clinics, such as CK Physiotherapy, will thoroughly plan the multifaceted management of this condition together with the patients’ physicians. Traditional medicine and complementary physiotherapy methods work cohesively to ease the symptoms in patients, and improve these patients’ overall condition.

(Source: New help for children with cystic fibrosis, Medical Xpress, March26, 2014)