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.