Respiratory physiotherapy and breathing exercises

What we do

We provide specialist respiratory physiotherapy in your own home to help you breathe more easily, clear your chest effectively, and maintain your activity levels. Our physiotherapists are trained in airway clearance techniques, breathing retraining, and exercise prescription for respiratory conditions.

Whether you're managing a long-term lung condition, recovering from a chest infection, or rebuilding stamina after illness, we'll work with you to improve your breathing, confidence, and quality of life.

Who it helps

COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) — managing breathlessness and maintaining activity
Chest infections and pneumonia — clearing secretions and recovering lung function
Post-COVID recovery — rebuilding breathing capacity and stamina after COVID-19
Bronchiectasis — ongoing airway clearance and exercise management
Asthma — breathing pattern retraining and exercise advice
Post-surgical patients — chest physiotherapy after thoracic or abdominal surgery
Older adults with recurrent chest problems — reducing infection risk and maintaining mobility

What to expect

Your physiotherapist will assess your breathing pattern, listen to your chest, and discuss your symptoms, activity levels, and goals. We'll develop a tailored programme to address your specific needs.

Your programme may include:

Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT): A structured breathing pattern to help clear mucus from your lungs
Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) devices: Handheld devices to help open airways and mobilise secretions
Breathing retraining: Techniques to reduce breathlessness and improve breathing efficiency
Pulmonary rehabilitation exercises: Graduated exercise to build stamina and reduce deconditioning
Pacing and energy conservation: Strategies to manage breathlessness during daily activities
Education: Understanding your condition and recognising when to seek medical help

Evidence-based approach

Respiratory physiotherapy is a core part of managing lung conditions. Research shows that airway clearance techniques reduce hospital admissions, pulmonary rehabilitation improves exercise tolerance and quality of life, and breathing retraining reduces anxiety associated with breathlessness. Our programmes follow NICE guidelines and the latest clinical evidence.

How home visits work

1. Assess

Chest assessment, breathing pattern review, and discussion of your symptoms and goals.

2. Treat

Airway clearance techniques, breathing exercises, and a graduated activity programme.

3. Manage

Ongoing support with self-management skills so you can maintain your progress independently.

Frequently asked questions

Can respiratory physiotherapy help with long COVID?

Yes. Many people experience persistent breathlessness, fatigue, and reduced fitness after COVID-19. Respiratory physiotherapy can help with breathing retraining, graded exercise, and rebuilding your stamina safely.

Will I need special equipment?

Not usually. Most techniques can be done without equipment. If a PEP device or other aid would help, we'll advise you on what to get and how to use it.

How is this different from pulmonary rehabilitation at the hospital?

Hospital-based pulmonary rehab is group-based and runs on a fixed timetable. Our service is one-to-one, delivered in your home, and tailored entirely to you. It's ideal if you can't attend a group, prefer individual support, or need a programme adapted to your specific condition.