Respiratory physiotherapy: breathe better, move more
When you are short of breath, even everyday activities become tiring. Respiratory physiotherapy combines breathing exercises, techniques to clear the airways and gradual exercise training, to reduce breathlessness and help you regain independence. You will be looked after by Claudia Pavlovic, a physiotherapist trained in respiratory physiotherapy.
What we treat
We always start with an assessment: understanding what limits your breathing and what you want to get back to.
- Chronic lung conditions COPD, emphysema, asthma, bronchiectasis: to manage breathlessness and stay active.
- After pneumonia or a hospital stay Rebuilding strength and stamina after a chest infection or time in hospital.
- Before and after surgery Before and after chest or abdominal surgery, to support your lungs and get moving again soon.
- Secretions and cough Techniques to help clear the airways when mucus builds up.
- Breathlessness and fatigue that won't go away Also after an infection such as COVID-19, when your breath and energy are slow to return.
How we work
- 01 Assessment We listen to your story, look at how you breathe and measure breathlessness, oxygen saturation and exercise tolerance, for example with a walking test.
- 02 Breathing techniques You learn to breathe more efficiently and manage breathlessness, including positions that help you recover your breath.
- 03 Clearing the airways If needed, we teach you airway clearance and effective coughing techniques you can also use at home.
- 04 Exercise training Aerobic and strength exercises, carefully dosed and progressed: this is what improves breathing, energy and quality of life the most.
Three myths
Sources: Spruit et al., ATS/ERS Statement, American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 2013 · McCarthy et al., Cochrane Review, 2015 · Puhan et al., Cochrane Review, 2016 · Osadnik et al., Cochrane Review, 2012
When to see a doctor straight away
Call your doctor or 144 if you have:
- sudden breathlessness, or much worse than usual, even at rest
- chest pain
- bluish lips or fingernails
- high fever, or phlegm that increases and changes colour
- blood in your phlegm
- unusual confusion or drowsiness
Frequently asked questions about respiratory physiotherapy
Content by Claudia Pavlovic, physiotherapist · Updated October 2026
Do I need a doctor's prescription?
For reimbursement, yes: with a medical prescription, respiratory physiotherapy is covered by basic health insurance, minus your deductible and co-payment.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your situation. Studies on pulmonary rehabilitation show benefits with programmes of about 6–12 weeks, with two or three sessions a week. After the assessment we suggest a plan.
Can I exercise if I use oxygen?
In many cases, yes. We adjust the intensity and monitor your saturation during the session, following your respiratory specialist's instructions.
Can you come to my home?
Yes. If getting to the practice is difficult, we come to you, with a prescription specifying home treatment.
What should I bring to the first session?
Your prescription, any reports (for example spirometry), your list of medicines, the inhalers you use and comfortable clothes.
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Short of breath in everyday life? Let's talk.
Write to us on WhatsApp: we will get back to you to find a day and time together.
All we need to book is your name and availability: we discuss your health in person at the practice.