Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy

Breathing easier, recovering stronger.

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This page is for general information only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified physiotherapist.

Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy illustration

Overview

What this care covers

Cardiopulmonary physiotherapy focuses on the heart and lungs. It helps people recovering from cardiac surgery, managing COPD, or rebuilding stamina after a prolonged ICU stay. Treatment typically includes breathing exercises, graded physical activity, airway clearance techniques and education on managing symptoms day to day. The goal is to get you back to a level of activity that feels comfortable and sustainable.

Common conditions

Conditions treated

COPDChronic obstructive pulmonary disease managed with pulmonary rehabilitation and breathing exercises.AsthmaBreathing retraining and exercise tolerance improvement for asthma management.Post-COVID RecoveryBreathlessness, fatigue, and deconditioning after COVID-19 illness.Post-CABG RehabilitationCardiac rehabilitation after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.BronchiectasisAirway clearance and breathing management for chronic bronchiectasis.ICU RecoveryRebuilding strength and breathing function after prolonged critical illness and ventilation.

Signs & symptoms

When to seek help

Breathlessness on exertion or at rest
Chronic productive cough
Chest tightness
Reduced exercise tolerance
Persistent fatigue
Inability to clear secretions from the chest

Approach

How treatment is delivered

Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes
Airway clearance techniques
Graded exercise therapy
Breathing retraining (diaphragmatic, pursed-lip)
ICU and ventilator weaning support
Energy conservation strategies

Equipment used

Modalities & equipment

Incentive spirometryPEP (positive expiratory pressure) devicesAcapellaFlutter devicePulse oximetry monitoring

Qualifications to look for

Relevant certifications

Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy (IAP)Pulmonary RehabilitationACPRC (Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Respiratory Care)

Patient benefits

What better recovery looks like

Improved lung capacity and oxygen uptake

Faster recovery after heart surgery

Better management of chronic respiratory conditions

Reduced hospital readmission rates

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