Respiratory physiotherapy
The information on this page has been checked by the physiotherapist Andreas Mondl.
What is respiratory therapy?
Physiotherapeutic respiratory therapy is a specialized form of respiratory therapy performed by physiotherapists. It focuses on the treatment of respiratory diseases, muscular dysfunctions and rehabilitation after surgery to improve breathing and promote lung health.
Details on respiratory physiotherapy treatment
| Duration and price of neurophysiotherapy: | 60 min €110 / 45 min €90 / 30 min €70 |
| Cash refund | €40 - €90 |
| Preparations: | No special preparations |
| Duration of the results: | Depending on the problem, repetition of the treatment often necessary |
Book respiratory physiotherapy in 1020 or 1190 Vienna today
Mediphysio is your physiotherapy practice in Leopoldstadt and Döbling
Areas of application of respiratory physiotherapy
Respiratory physiotherapy is used in the following areas:
- Chronic lung diseases: Maintenance or improvement of lung capacity.
- Neurological diseasesSupport of respiratory function through targeted exercises.
- After acute infections (e.g. influenza, Covid-19): Restoration of lung capacity after recovery from illness.
- Stress managementReduction of anxiety and stress through active breathing and relaxation exercises.
Respiratory physiotherapy also helps to prevent or mitigate emergency situations by reducing anxiety and stress, preventing the situation from worsening and possibly even resolving it.
Advantages of respiratory physiotherapy
Respiratory therapy offers a variety of benefits for physical and mental health. Here are some of the most important benefits:
Improvement of breathing control:
Through targeted exercises and techniques, respiratory therapy helps to improve breathing control. This is particularly beneficial for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Better breathing control enables a more efficient oxygen supply to the body and reduces the feeling of breathlessness.
Stress reduction:
Breath therapy often includes relaxation exercises that help to reduce stress and promote physical and mental relaxation. By consciously breathing and directing attention to the breath, breathing therapy can have a calming effect and help to manage stress. Breathing is the gateway to the autonomic nervous system.
Improvement in physical performance:
Optimal breathing plays a decisive role in physical performance. Respiratory therapy can strengthen the respiratory muscles and increase lung capacity. This can help athletes and fitness enthusiasts to improve their performance and increase their endurance.
Support with rehabilitation:
After surgery or long periods of inactivity, respiratory therapy can help to restore lung function and strengthen the respiratory muscles. It promotes the expansion of the alveoli and improves oxygen uptake, which accelerates the healing process.
It is important to note that respiratory therapy should be individually adapted and is best carried out under the guidance of a qualified respiratory therapist. In this way, the benefits of this therapy can be optimally utilized.
Types of respiratory physiotherapy
There are different types of respiratory therapy that can be used depending on the patient’s individual needs and goals. Here are some commonly used types of respiratory therapy:
Diaphragmatic breathing
This technique focuses on activating the diaphragm, the most important breathing muscle. The therapist guides the patient to breathe deeply into the abdomen using the diaphragm. This improves breathing efficiency, expands lung capacity and promotes relaxed breathing.
Lip brake
Lip braking is a technique in which the patient slows down the flow of air by pursing their lips slightly when exhaling. This makes it easier to exhale and can help with breathing difficulties such as shortness of breath or hyperventilation.
Respiratory muscle training
This type of respiratory therapy uses special exercises to improve the strength and endurance of the respiratory muscles. These include exercises with a breathing trainer or spirometric device in which the patient breathes against resistance to strengthen the respiratory muscles.
Breathing pattern training
This technique focuses on changing unfavorable breathing patterns, such as shallow, superficial breathing or hyperventilation. The therapist guides the patient to practice conscious and controlled breathing in order to develop an optimal breathing pattern.
Breathing relaxation techniques
Various relaxation techniques such as deep abdominal breathing, progressive muscle relaxation or breath focusing are used to reduce stress and promote calm, relaxed breathing.
Breathing aids
- In some cases, aids such as airway devices or inhalers can be used to support respiratory function or to deliver medication to the airways in a targeted manner.
It is important to note that the choice of specific respiratory therapy techniques depends on the patient’s individual situation and that a qualified physiotherapist or respiratory therapist should recommend and guide the most appropriate methods.
Frequently treated symptoms
FAQ Respiratory physiotherapy
Frequently asked questions about respiratory physiotherapy
What is the aim of respiratory physiotherapy?
The aim of respiratory physiotherapy is to improve breathing, promote breathing control, alleviate breathing difficulties and improve quality of life.
How often and for how long should I do the breathing exercises?
The frequency and duration of the breathing exercises can vary depending on your individual needs. Your therapist will draw up an individual treatment plan for you, which will include information on how often and for how long you should perform the exercises.
How can I improve my breathing technique?
Your therapist will teach you techniques to improve your breathing technique, such as diaphragmatic breathing or lip braking. Through regular practice and awareness of your breathing, you can improve your breathing technique over time.
Are there special breathing techniques that I can use in my everyday life?
Yes, your therapist can recommend breathing techniques that you can integrate into your everyday life to support your breathing. These can be short breathing pauses, relaxation techniques or conscious breathing.
How long does it take before I notice an improvement in my breathing difficulties?
The time it takes to notice an improvement in breathing difficulties can vary from person to person. In some cases, you may notice an improvement after just a few sessions, while in other cases it may take longer. Patience and regular practice are important.
Can I use respiratory therapy in combination with other therapies or treatments?
Yes, respiratory therapy can often be combined well with other therapies or treatments to achieve holistic results. Talk to your therapist about other therapies you are receiving to develop an integrated treatment strategy.
How can I manage breathing difficulties during certain activities or situations?
Your therapist can teach you techniques to manage breathing difficulties during specific activities or situations. This may include learning breath control, pause breathing or relaxation techniques.
Can respiratory therapy help with stress or anxiety?
Yes, certain breathing techniques can help to reduce stress and anxiety. By using relaxation techniques and conscious breathing, you can calm your breathing and trigger a relaxation response in your body.
How can I integrate my breathing therapy into my daily routine?
It can be helpful to set fixed times to do your breathing exercises and integrate them into your daily routine. This can help you to perform the exercises regularly and reap the benefits of breathing therapy.
What should I bring to my first session?
Bring all relevant medical documents, a list of the medication you are taking and comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement.
How long does a treatment session last?
Most sessions last around 60 minutes, depending on the individual needs and goals set by the treating therapist.