Postural drainage is a medical technique used to help clear mucus and other secretions from the lungs. The word "postural" is spelled /ˈpɒstjʊrəl/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "o" is pronounced like the "o" in "pot" and the "u" like the "u" in "put". The "s" is pronounced like a "z" sound. "Drainage" is spelled /ˈdreɪnɪdʒ/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "a" is pronounced like the "ā" in "date" and the "i" like the "i" in "pin". The "g" is pronounced like a "j" sound.
Postural drainage is a therapeutic technique used in respiratory medicine to remove excessive mucus and secretions from the respiratory tract. It involves positioning the patient in various body positions to allow gravity to aid in the removal of mucus from specific lung segments.
The technique is based on the principle that gravity can help mobilize and drain mucus from the lungs by manipulating the position of the body. Different body positions are selected depending on the specific lung segment that requires drainage. These positions can include lying in different angles and directions (such as lying on the back with the head lower than the hips or facing down with the head lower than the chest) or sitting or standing in certain postures.
Postural drainage is commonly used as part of a comprehensive chest physiotherapy program for patients with respiratory conditions that cause excessive mucus production, such as cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and bronchiectasis. The aim of postural drainage is to facilitate the expulsion of mucus, improve lung function, and prevent complications such as respiratory infections. It is often performed in combination with other techniques, including percussion and vibration, which help dislodge and mobilize the mucus for easier removal.
Postural drainage is typically performed under the guidance of healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists or respiratory therapists, who assess the patient's condition, prescribe the appropriate positions, and monitor the effectiveness of the technique to ensure optimal results.
The word "postural" in "postural drainage" comes from the Latin word "postura" meaning "position" or "posture". It refers to the specific body positions or postures used during this therapeutic technique.
The word "drainage" originates from the Old French word "draignier", which means "to draw off slowly". In this context, drainage refers to the process of removing excess mucus or secretions from the respiratory system.