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Current physiotherapy practice for adults with bronchiectasis: Data from the Australian bronchiectasis registry.
Elizabeth M Webb1, Anne E Holland2, Anne B Chang3
1Department of Physiotherapy, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
Approximately half of adults with bronchiectasis regularly use airway clearance techniques (ACTs) or exercise. Quality of life and disease severity influence engagement, guiding tailored physiotherapy for better management.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Medicine
- Clinical Practice
- Patient-Reported Outcomes
Background:
- Airway clearance techniques (ACTs) and physical exercise are recommended for adults with bronchiectasis.
- Current practice patterns and predictors of engagement are not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe current ACT and exercise practices in adults with bronchiectasis.
- To identify predictors of regular ACT use, specific ACT modalities, and exercise participation.
Main Methods:
- Data from 461 patients in the Australian Bronchiectasis Registry were analyzed.
- Multivariate analyses identified predictors of ACT and exercise engagement.
- Quality of life (QOL-B), demographics, and disease severity were assessed.
Main Results:
- 58% of patients reported regular ACT use; the active cycle of breathing technique was most common.
- 46% reported regular exercise, primarily walking.
- Regular exercise was associated with severe bronchiectasis and better physical function (QOL-B).
Conclusions:
- About half of adults with bronchiectasis engage in regular ACTs or exercise.
- Quality of life and disease severity are key predictors of engagement.
- Findings can inform personalized physiotherapy strategies for optimizing management.
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