Physiotherapy in cystic fibrosis Α comprehensive clinical overview

Physiotherapy remains the cornerstone of cystic fibrosis (CF) management alongside medical treatment. Traditionally, physiotherapy intervention focussed on airway clearance during the clinically stable stage and chest infections. Research evidence consistently supports greater mucus clearance with chest physiotherapy compared to cough alone or no treatment. Various methods and techniques of airway clearance have been developed and investigated, and data suggest that most of them are of similar effectiveness. Nowadays physiotherapy management also extends to other areas, supported by studies and clinical practice. The physiotherapists plan, supervise and follow-up systematic exercise or personalised rehabilitation programs, which, similarly to airway clearance, are recommended in all patients with CF. Furthermore, based on a comprehensive assessment, physiotherapists incorporate the management of accompanying musculoskeletal problems such as back pain and postural disorders, as well as urine incontinence issues. In the era that aims to improve quality of life, it is essential that physiotherapists are aware of specific conditions that might affect the management of CF. Their role is to work alongside and within the CF multi-disciplinary team throughout patient’s treatment and consistently support the patient and carers, in particular whilst on clinical pathways of the lung transplantation and palliative care.