About respiratory physiotherapy
Respiratory physiotherapy supports people whose breathing or airway clearance is affected by illness, a long-term lung condition or recent surgery. It is a practical, hands-on part of recovery that many patients are referred for by their GP or specialist, and one you can also contact us about directly.
Treatment is matched to the condition: clearing secretions in an acute chest infection is a different task from managing breathlessness in a long-term condition or getting the lungs working well after an operation.
What we assess and treat
Conditions we commonly provide respiratory physiotherapy for:
- Acute bronchitis and recovery from pneumonia
- Bronchiectasis and other conditions with ongoing secretions
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema
- Asthma, where airway clearance and breathing pattern need support
- Breathing and mobility after abdominal, chest or orthopaedic surgery
- Reduced exercise tolerance after a chest illness
- Breathing pattern problems that contribute to breathlessness or tension
How physiotherapy helps
Treatment is decided by the assessment, not before it. Depending on what we find, your plan may include:
- 01
Assessment
We assess your breathing pattern, chest, secretions and exercise tolerance, and review any information from your doctor.
- 02
Airway clearance
Techniques such as active cycle of breathing, positioning and manual techniques to help clear secretions effectively.
- 03
Breathing retraining
Exercises to improve breathing pattern, ease breathlessness and improve control during activity.
- 04
Mobility and exercise
Graded activity to rebuild strength and stamina safely after illness or surgery.
- 05
Self-management
A home routine and the knowledge to manage flare-ups of a long-term condition, in partnership with your doctor.
When to see your doctor first
Some symptoms need a medical assessment before physiotherapy
- Severe or rapidly worsening shortness of breath, or difficulty speaking in full sentences
- Chest pain, blue lips or fingertips, or confusion
- Coughing up blood
- High fever with a productive cough
- These need urgent medical attention. Call your doctor or emergency services first.
These are uncommon. If you are unsure, call the practice and we will guide you on the right first step.
Your first visit
- 1
Assessment
We talk through your history and symptoms, then assess how you move to find the cause.
- 2
Treatment
Hands-on treatment starts in the same session, matched to what the assessment shows.
- 3
Your plan
You leave knowing what we are treating, what to do at home, and what comes next.
Common questions
What happens in a chest physiotherapy session?
After an assessment, treatment may include positioning, breathing exercises, manual techniques on the chest and guided activity. You will be taught what to continue at home, and sessions are adjusted to how you are feeling on the day.
Can physiotherapy help a long-term lung condition?
Physiotherapy is part of the recognised management of conditions such as COPD and bronchiectasis, alongside medical care. It focuses on airway clearance, breathing control and keeping you active, and complements your doctor's treatment.
Is respiratory physiotherapy only for after an illness?
No. It is also used after surgery, for ongoing conditions and for breathing pattern problems. If you are unsure whether it is appropriate for you, call the practice or ask your doctor.
Related conditions
This page is general information about physiotherapy for this condition. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an individual assessment. If you are worried about your symptoms, please contact the practice or see your doctor. Reviewed 2026-09-10. Physiotherapy services are provided by Candice Paulse, BSc Physiotherapy (UCT), registered with the HPCSA (PT 0091502).