What is the role of physiotherapy in pleurisy?

Physiotherapy plays an important role as part of the comprehensive management of pleurisy. It can help alleviate symptoms, promote recovery, and prevent complications. Here are some of the key roles of physiotherapy in pleurisy:

1. Breathing Exercises: Physiotherapists can teach individuals with pleurisy specific breathing techniques that help improve respiratory function. Deep breathing exercises help expand the lungs and promote ventilation, reducing shortness of breath and chest tightness.

2. Chest Mobilization: Gentle chest mobilization techniques applied by a physiotherapist can help loosen any thickened or tight pleural tissues. This can improve chest expansion and reduce pain or discomfort during respiration.

3. Postural Drainage: Physiotherapists can guide individuals in performing postural drainage techniques. These exercises involve positioning the body in a way that facilitates the drainage of excess fluid or secretions from the pleural space.

4. Coughing Techniques: Physiotherapists can provide strategies and techniques to improve effective coughing, which helps clear secretions from the lungs and promote healing of the pleural tissues.

5. Pain Management: Physiotherapy interventions, such as soft tissue mobilization, heat or cold therapy, and guided relaxation techniques, can help manage and reduce pain associated with pleurisy.

6. Education: Physiotherapists provide education about the condition, its symptoms, and self-management strategies to help individuals better understand their condition and actively participate in their recovery.

7. Monitoring Progress: Physiotherapists can regularly assess the individual's progress and response to treatment. This allows for modifications or advancements in the physiotherapy interventions as needed.

By combining these interventions with appropriate medical management, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in reducing discomfort, improving lung function, and enhancing the overall recovery of individuals affected by pleurisy.