Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy

• How can physiotherapy help to improve my overall mobility and independence and support me in preventing / managing a flare-up of my condition?

• How can I manage my shortness of breath better and manage my condition in the long term?

• How can I improve my fitness and stamina to carry out everyday activities such as supermarket shopping?

What is Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy?

Cardiorespiratory physiotherapy is a specialised area of physiotherapy focused on the assessment and treatment of people with conditions affecting the cardiovascular (heart) and respiratory (lungs) systems.

People with cardiorespiratory conditions commonly report distressing symptoms such as shortness of breath, persistent cough, finding it harder to breathe (with or without physical activity) and / or a reduced ability to exercise.

Common Cardiorespiratory Conditions

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Heart or lung surgery
• Asthma
• Bronchiectasis
• Bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Heart failure / Congestive Cardiac Failure (CCF)
• Respiratory Infections i.e. Pneumonia
• High blood pressure / Hypertension
• Peripheral Vascular Disease
• Chest pain / Angina
• Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
• Heart or lung injury

Common Cardiorespiratory Symptoms

• Shortness of breath after getting dressed, shopping or walking short distances
• Increased sputum production
• Reduced mobility or ability to walk for exercise
• Inability to catch your breath quickly
• Unsure of appropriate positions to help to catch your breath
• Shortness of breath and reduced exercise tolerance after surgery
• Fatigue
• Wheezing

How can we Help?

It is now widely recognised that cardiorespiratory physiotherapy is both an effective way to prevent complications after surgery and as an integral part of the long-term management of people with chronic cardiorespiratory conditions.

We have an experienced team who work both in the hospital and outpatient clinic. Whether you are: about to head into hospital, in hospital, discharged from hospital; or have a chronic cardiorespiratory condition – we can help.

Depending on your specific needs, your Active physiotherapist will design and prescribe you an individualised exercise program, which will include both breathing control exercises and a general fitness and strengthening program. Where appropriate, you may also receive an inspiratory muscle device and training program; targeted manual therapies to assist with sputum clearance and cough; circulatory exercises; and education on a wide range of topics such as breathless positions, energy conservation and lifestyle modifications to help you to manage and improve your condition.

Our Connected Care Approach

With our unique ‘Anchala Care’ approach, our team will expertly help you to prepare for your surgery, provide you with physiotherapy during your hospital stay and while you heal and return to normal activity after surgery. You can connect with your physio in hospital, in our clinics and during our online video consultations.

What Should I Expect From my Appointment during my Hospital Stay or at your Outpatient Clinic?

• Detailed Interview: This helps your physiotherapist to fully understand your symptoms, medical and surgical history and your specific goals.
• Physical Assessment: We undertake a thorough assessment of your movement, strength, balance, exercise tolerance and overall function.
• Targeted Treatments: This includes therapies to assist with cough and sputum clearance, and comprehensive advice and education.
• Progressive Exercise Program: This may include breathing facilitation and breathing control exercises and education; and safe, graded general exercise to assist your recovery after a hospital stay or flare-up of your condition, and your general fitness, health and well-being.
• Communication and Collaboration: With your Specialist and General Practitioner to keep them informed of your progress and to support your care.