Cardiorespiratory physiotherapy is a branch of physiotherapy that targets the “lungs”; for a fresh breath, “the heart” for a stronger pump, and “the whole body”, for a better performance. It is concerned with management of respiratory, cardiovascular system problems and the cardiopulmonary manifestations of diseases affecting other body system.
Cardiorespiratory care has an extensive scope that starts in the ICU by supporting the patients’ ventilation and mobility. It extends to the inpatient and outpatient management to prepare the patient for discharge by equipping people with strength and endurance required for optimum functioning in the community. Cardiorespiratory physiotherapists also work closely with people in the community to maintain the benefits of inpatient rehabilitation, prevent deterioration, and promote physical activity across all age groups.
Interventions are all evidence based. They include but are not limited to: non invasive ventilation, breathing training, sputum clearance, strength and endurance training. The aim is to help you breath deeper while controlling the sensation of dyspnoea, help your heart pump stronger, and ultimately helping you achieve the optimum level of movement you aspire.
