Respiratory physiotherapy

People with COPD, cystic fibrosis (taaislijmziekte), asthma, a past coronavirus infection, or after lung surgery experience daily symptoms that can severely limit quality of life.

The respiratory physiotherapist is trained to treat and guide people with acute or chronic lung complaints and can be a valuable addition to your doctor's treatment. The respiratory physiotherapist sees many patients with COPD, asthma and other lung conditions.

Treatment with respiratory physiotherapy

Often, a patient has already seen the GP or respiratory physician, and additional exercise testing of lung function has been done. The treatment is tailored to this and aims to improve endurance and reduce shortness of breath. This is done, among other things, by training strength and fitness.

In addition, you may also be taught a different breathing technique or relaxation exercises, and any accompanying psychological problems are discussed. You will learn, for example, to cough up mucus and to distribute your energy throughout the day. It is also important that you live healthily. Eat healthily, exercise sufficiently, and take your medication on time.

The treatment can take place in groups or individually. Everyone trains at their own level, but in groups, experiences and tips can be exchanged about how to deal with the consequences of the lung condition.

Where does a respiratory physiotherapist work?

The respiratory physiotherapist can be found in private practices, hospitals, and rehabilitation centres. There, they work together with the respiratory physician or GP.

Find a respiratory physiotherapist

Respiratory physiotherapy is a specialisation that is not found in every practice. Therefore, enter your postcode here to find a practice with expert respiratory physiotherapists on staff.