Physiotherapy and Asthma

Physiotherapy is a conventional healing method that uses a combination of massage, heat and cold therapy, mild electric stimulation, and exercises to heal muscles. Physiotherapists help people who have suffered injuries, disability or illness to get proper function and motion in affected body parts.

Unbeknownst to many people, however, a physiotherapist can also help people with asthma. Asthma is a respiratory condition wherein the lung’s airways become irritated and swollen, thus hindering a person’s ability to breathe properly. While asthma can be treated with medications, those looking for an all-natural means of controlling it can turn to physiotherapy instead.

To begin with, physiotherapists teach their clients a more relaxed and efficient way of breathing to ease strain on the lungs. They also educate clients on proper ways to manage symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and excessive mucous.

Exercise is vital to strengthening the lungs, but not all exercises are suited to asthmatics. For example, some may overtax the lungs, which can trigger an asthmatic episode. A physiotherapist will develop a customised workout plan for clients that enables them to get the exercise they need without putting them at risk of an asthma attack.

Breathing is something that most people take for granted, but is something that asthma sufferers are constantly aware of. With the help of physiotherapy though, they can mitigate the effects of asthma and enjoy their lives more.