Resources · Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy

Symptoms, treatment and the tests we use.

The symptoms we help with, how we assess, the airway-clearance and breathing techniques we teach, the rehab programmes we run, and the tests we use to track progress.

Managing Your Condition Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy · area 03 of 07 Medicines & Infection
Recognise it

Symptoms

6 guides

The common symptoms of heart and lung conditions — what they mean and what to watch for.

SymptomsBreathlessness (Dyspnoea)Why it happens and the breathlessness–inactivity spiral.SymptomsChest PainTelling cardiac pain from pleural and muscle pain, using GTN, and when to call an ambulance.SymptomsChronic & Persistent CoughCauses of a lingering cough and when to seek help.SymptomsDecreased Exercise ToleranceThe deconditioning spiral — and how to reverse it.SymptomsIncreased Sputum VolumeWhat the amount and colour of your sputum can tell you.SymptomsLow Oxygen & VentilationWhat your oxygen reading means, carbon dioxide and ventilation, and when a low number needs action.
Our approach

How we treat

7 guides

How we assess and treat — from first principles to the airway-clearance and breathing techniques we teach.

OverviewWhen You Might Need a Cardiorespiratory PhysiotherapistFrom ICU to community — the moments a cardiorespiratory physio helps, and how Inspire Clinic continues your care at home.OverviewOverview of Cardiorespiratory PhysiotherapyWhat it is, who it helps and how we work.AssessmentPhysiotherapy AssessmentWhat happens at your assessment and how it shapes your plan.TechniquePrinciples of Airway ClearanceHow we clear the chest — including hypertonic saline.TechniqueActive Cycle of Breathing Techniques (ACBT)The active cycle of breathing, adapted to clear excess secretions.TechniquePEP & Oscillating DevicesPositive-pressure devices that help move mucus.TechniqueCough Assist (MI-E)Mechanical insufflation–exsufflation to assist a weak cough.
Get stronger

Rehabilitation & Training

7 guides

Supervised, progressive programmes that build fitness, strength and confidence.

RehabCardiorespiratory RehabilitationStructured, supervised exercise to build capacity.RehabPulmonary RehabilitationThe eight-week exercise and education programme for chronic lung disease.RehabCardiac RehabilitationSupervised recovery after a cardiac event, and the secondary prevention that follows.RehabPre-Surgical RehabilitationGetting fitter before surgery for a faster recovery.RehabPost-Surgical RehabilitationRecovering safely and rebuilding after an operation.RehabBreathing RetrainingTechniques to ease and control breathlessness.RehabSmoking CessationThe single biggest step for your lungs and heart — and how we help you take it.
Measure it

Tests we use

4 guides

The tests and rating scales that turn how you feel into something we can track from one visit to the next. The full set lives under Outcome Measures & Clinical Skills.

TestAuscultationListening to the chest with a stethoscope.AssessmentFunctional Capacity Assessment (NDIS)Detailed assessment of daily function for NDIS plans.TestModified Borg (mBorg) ScaleA simple 0–10 rating of breathlessness and effort.TestSpirometryThe core breathing test of lung function.

These resources are for general education and are not a substitute for individualised assessment by a qualified clinician. If your symptoms change suddenly or severely, seek urgent medical care.