Physiotherapeutic management strategies for the treatment of cystic fibrosis in adults

Abstract

Physiotherapy has long been considered a cornerstone of condition management for people with cystic fibrosis (CF). The presentation of CF has changed over time with an increased life expectancy and increased expectations of people with CF to have a complete lifestyle. In turn, the scope of strategies used in physiotherapy for CF have also changed dramatically over the years, moving away from routine postural drainage and manual techniques toward an individualized regimen including the choice of many different forms of airway clearance, such as both independent and assisted, exercise, treatments to promote continence and good posture, inhalation therapy, oxygen, and noninvasive ventilation. This article describes the techniques and overall strategies used by physiotherapists in helping people with CF to manage the symptoms and progression of their condition.

Keywords:

• airway clearance
• exercise
• inhalers
• nebulizers
• oxygen
• noninvasive ventilation

Disclosure

Tracey Daniels provides advice as a consultant to Philips on nebulizer and associated technology development, to Novartis and Pharmaxis on inhaled therapies, and to Air Products on home oxygen provision.