Physiotherapy Management of COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases have been defined by the Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung Diseases (GOLD) as a disease state characterized by airflow limitation that is not easily reversible.
There are mainly two types of COPD:
• Emphysema and
• Chronic bronchitis
Acute exacerbations are an important feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with long-term implications for patients and the health system. Both conditions have similar symptoms and are typically caused by smoking. Approximately 90 percent trusted source of COPD cases are related to smoking. Less common causes include genetic conditions, air pollution, exposure to toxic gases or fumes, and dust.
Physiotherapists play an integral role in the treatment of people with exacerbations of COPD, with high-level evidence that physiotherapy interventions can aid recovery and prevent recurrence.
Physiotherapists frequently use breathing exercises to relieve dyspnoea, improve thoraco-abdominal co-ordination and enhance functional capacity in people with acute exacerbations of COPD. Commonly used techniques include breath control (also known as diaphragmatic or abdominal breathing) and pursed lip breathing (gentle exhalation through lips that are pressed together).