Percussion Technique for Physiotherapy

Nov 7, 2024

Lecture Notes: Percussion Technique in Physiotherapy

Overview

  • Demonstration of percussion technique.
  • Conducted only upon advice from a physiotherapist.
  • Patient's comfort and safety are priorities.

Patient Positioning

  • Initial Position: Patient in side lying position.
    • Use ribs to identify the bottom of the lungs.
  • Alternative Position: Sitting.

Equipment

  • Use a folded towel.

Technique Steps

  1. Preparation

    • Ensure patient is comfortable.
    • Place a folded towel over the target area.
  2. Percussion Details

    • Use a cupped hand with a soft wrist.
    • Perform percussion at 150 to 200 claps per minute (2 to 3 claps per second).
    • Ensure the patient is not breathless.
  3. Treatment Areas

    • Bottom of the Lung
      • Start treatment at the bottom.
      • If the patient needs to cough, allow them to sit up and clear.
    • Middle of the Lung
      • Move the towel accordingly.
      • Continue percussion and monitor comfort.
    • Top of the Lung
      • Shift focus after completion of the middle area.
      • Stop if the patient feels uncomfortable.
  4. Completion

    • Turn the patient to treat the other side after coughing and clearing.
  5. Alternative Approach in Sitting

    • Place towel across patient.
    • Percussion can be done:
      • From behind, working from the base up.
      • Across the front of the chest.

Key Considerations

  • Prioritize patient's comfort and ability to clear secretions.
  • Adjust positioning if discomfort is reported.
  • Ensure to treat both sides of the lungs.