Respiratory physiotherapy

for pulmonary symptoms such as shortness of breath or coughing

Respiratory physiotherapy in Long Covid treatment

Pulmonary symptoms such as shortness of breath and cough persist after infection with Covid-19 in both hospitalised and non-hospitalised patients. Shortness of breath is often caused by residual infiltrates, interstitial changes that interfere with the exchange of air and/or exhaustion or atrophy of the respiratory muscles. Great emphasis is placed on training the respiratory muscles, breathing techniques and respiratory therapy at the beginning of Long Covid rehabilitation.

The following forms of respiratory therapy are used in Long Covid rehabilitation:

  • Training in breath control and awareness of breathing
  • Breathing exercises
  • Body postures that facilitate breathing
  • Pursed-lip breathing
  • Diaphragm training
  • Strengthening the auxiliary respiratory muscles
  • Inspiratory muscle training (e.g. with coach 2)
  • Cough techniques
  • Breathing and movement (e.g. bow and arrow exercise/rotation-compression-PEP)
  • Loud exhalation and humming techniques (secretion transport)
  • Reflexive respiratory therapy (stimulation holds on the thorax, heat therapy, respiratory exercises and intensive relaxation)
  • Manual techniques

Supporting measures where required:

  • Moist inhalations to clear secretions (e.g. with Emser brine or NaCl)
  • PEP units with oscillations (e.g. flutter or cornet)
  • Connective tissue massages (reflexive spasm relief)
  • Loosening massages and mild heat applications (e.g. for pain and tension in respiratory support musculature)
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