Respiratory physical therapy in the treatment of chronic bronchitis

Currently recommended respiratory physical therapy procedures include measures designed to improve the clearance of secretions from the lungs, improve distribution of inspired air, and improve the general physical condition. In patients with chronic bronchitis there is frequently an abundance of thick, tenacious bronchial secretions associated with defective mucociliary function due to diffuse disease of the airways. Those who are unable to clear their secretions adequately are candidates for one or more of the techniques discussed here. In designing a treatment plan for the chronic bronchitic, it is important to use only those techniques with demonstrated benefit and minimal hazard in that particular patient.