This document discusses relaxation positions that can help patients with breathing difficulties. It begins by explaining the basic principle that certain positions can optimize the length-tension relationship of the diaphragm and facilitate breathing. It then provides examples of positions for obstructive lung conditions like leaning forward while sitting or standing, and positions for restrictive lung conditions like sitting upright or in high side-lying. Examples are given for each type of position. The document concludes by mentioning forward kneeling as a position that can help breathless children.

1. U G S T U D E N T
J S S C P T , M Y S U R U
RELAXATION POSITIONS
FOR BREATHELESS
PATIENT

2. Content
 Objectives
 Introduction
 Definition
 Summary
 References

3. Basic principle behind...
 There are positions which optimize the length
tension status of the diaphragm (Sharp et al
1980, O'Neill & McCarthy 1983, Dean 1985).
 By sitting or standing leaning forward, the abdominal
contents raise the anterior part of the
diaphragm, possibly facilitating its contraction
during inspiration.
(M.O.Segizbaeva 2013)

4.  A similar effect can be seen
in the side lying and high side lying positions
where the curvature of the dependent part of
the diaphragm is increased.
 This effect combined
with relaxation of the head, neck and
shoulders promotes the control in breathing

5. Stand leaning backwards or sideways
against a wall
 Have your feet slightly apart, about one foot or
30cms away from the wall. Relax your hands down
by your sides. If you prefer, rest your hands or
thumbs in your waistband

6. Relaxation positions depends on the lung conditions:
1. Positions for obstructive lung conditions
2. Positions for restrictive lung conditions

7. Positions for obstructive lung
conditions
1. Stand leaning forward :
Lean from the hips, with your
forearms resting

8. 2. Sit leaning forward :
lean resting your elbows on
your knees

9. 3.Sit leaning forward at a
table :
Rest your head and arms on
pillows on a table when you’re
really short of breath.

10. 4.Side lying with leg on
the floor bent at knee
Lie on your side with pillows
under your head. Make sure
the top pillow supports your
neck. Slightly bend the knee
of the leg you’re lying on,
with your top leg straight.

11. Positions for restrictive lung conditions
1.Sit upright in a firm chair :
If your chair doesn’t have
arms, rest your arms on your
thighs. Let your wrists and
hands go limp.

12. 2.High side lying :
Lie on your side with pillows
under your head and
shoulders. Make sure your top
pillow supports your neck.
Slightly bend your knees, hips
and top leg

13. Position for Breathless children
1.Forward kneeling

14. References
1. Physiotherapy for Respiratory and Cardiac
Problems,2nd edition ,Jennifer A Pryor
2. British Lung Foundation 2017,
blf.org.uk/breathlessness