4 Benefits Of Respiratory Physiotherapy In Babies And Children – You Are Mom

Respiratory physiotherapy offers several benefits for infants and children. During childhood, the respiratory system is developing, and repetitive respiratory processes are characteristic of this stage.

However, in some children, the condition may worsen and develop a health problem. Pediatric lung diseases are very numerous, so episodes of coughing and secretions in children should not be underestimated. Early checks and treatments promote a better prognosis.

The goals of pediatric respiratory physiotherapy are to expel or reduce the obstruction of the bronchi. In addition to preventing or treating possible complications of pulmonary symptoms and structural damage to the child’s body.

What is respiratory physiotherapy?

Respiratory physiotherapy is a specialty which in turn is subdivided into adult or pediatric respiratory therapy. It includes passive techniques performed by the therapist as well as active techniques performed by the patient without the help of another person. Sometimes a specific item can be used during the session.

This therapy helps to remove secretions from the airways and improve the patient’s respiratory mechanics. It also treats acute respiratory illnesses, as well as chronic illnesses of the respiratory system.

How and when is it applied in babies and children?

Pediatric physiotherapy is applied to babies and children with passive, painless and very effective techniques. The results are immediate. During the session, the mother or father is invited to accompany the child to give him peace and security.

In addition, parents are informed of home care measures. Like a good nasal wash, or postures that help expel secretions.

Respiratory physiotherapy is applied to babies and children when they develop respiratory disorders such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis, or asthma. Also in the case of cystic fibrosis and neuromuscular diseases, as well as in all diseases with increased bronchial secretions.

Benefits of respiratory physiotherapy in infants and children

The advantages of pediatric respiratory physiotherapy are manifold. Among them, it promotes the elimination of secretions in the upper and lower respiratory tract. In addition, it reduces coughing, thus improving the quality of sleep. By helping to eliminate more secretions, the little one also improves his diet.

Improves bacterial bronchitis

In the case of bacterial bronchitis, respiratory physiotherapy drains abundant secretions, reducing the need for medication. In the case of hospitalized patients, it also reduces the days of hospitalization.

If the child is to stay at home, physiotherapy treatment is carried out at home. In some cases, parents learn a few techniques to perform on a daily basis.

For the multidisciplinary treatment of cystic fibrosis

Children with cystic fibrosis should be cared for by a multidisciplinary team of experts. Respiratory physiotherapy plays an essential role in improving respiratory status and quality of life. It is essential for the physiotherapist to assess and diagnose the child to begin treatment immediately.

Decrease lung infections

In addition, the still developing respiratory system of children, added to genetic influences, exposes them to pulmonary infections which can be acute or chronic, bacterial or viral. They can also be localized or diffuse.

Early respiratory physiotherapy helps reduce bronchial obstruction and distension of the lungs. Therefore, it improves symptoms such as coughing and the presence of extra noises when inhaling or exhaling.

Supports a better quality of life in neurological diseases

In children with chronic pathologies such as brain damage or chronic illnesses, respiratory physiotherapy integrates a specialized team. This group of children does present physical, mental, sensory or intellectual impairments which affect their daily life. The positive effects of physiotherapy in this area are evident immediately after each session. It also offers progressive long-term benefits.

Precautions to be taken into account with respiratory physiotherapy

Early medical attention is extremely important when respiratory symptoms are present. In addition, the presence of coughing and shortness of breath should be taken into account, as well as an increase in the production of nasal secretions or audible noises in the child’s breathing.

There are certain restrictions for the application of respiratory physiotherapy in infants and children. This is when there are tumors in the respiratory system and diseases such as epiglottitis. In addition to more specific cases, such as some postoperative surgery on the skull or major circulatory disorders. This will always be done with a medical referral from the pediatrician.

Therefore, it is important to observe the symptoms and control them in time to apply respiratory physiotherapy to infants and children as soon as possible. It is best not to wait until it is the last resort after treatment.

Finally, respiratory physiotherapy replaces or compensates for failures in the respiratory system. These failures can be temporary or permanent.