Copd (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a lung disease that affects millions of people every year. It can be a difficult condition to manage, often leading to hospitalizations and life-threatening complications. However, with the right treatments and support, those living with copd can lead productive and healthy lives. One of the recommended therapies for those living with copd is physical therapy.

Physical therapy helps those living with copd in many ways. Firstly, it is beneficial in improving breathing. Physical therapy can help the copd patient increase the range of motion of their affected muscles, enabling them to breathe easier. Furthermore, physical therapy can help improve cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that physical therapy can help reduce shortness of breath and improve overall exercise capacity.

Physical therapy can also help improve muscle strength. People living with copd have weaker muscles than those without the condition, leading to feelings of fatigue and difficulty performing everyday tasks. By exercising affected muscles, physical therapy can help strengthen them which helps in carrying out everyday tasks.

Physical therapy can also help those living with copd in other ways. Firstly, it helps combat depression. Having copd can be isolating and can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. Physical therapy can help by providing social contact and something to look forward to. Secondly, it can help improve sleep. Many people with copd report feeling fatigued and exhausted, and physical therapy can help provide a great sense of restful sleep. Additionally, physical therapy can help those living with copd with education. Specific techniques can be learned to help cope with the challenges of living with copd, and to help slow the progression of the condition.

In summary, physical therapy has many benefits for those living with copd. It helps improve breathing, increase exercise capacity, reduce shortness of breath, and reduce depression. Furthermore, it helps improve muscle strength, provide social interaction, provide restful sleep, and equip those with copd with coping and educational strategies. All these benefits are essential for those living with copd to lead productive and healthy lives.