Physiotherapy resources

Take a look at our information on physiotherapy, produced with the help of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Cystic Fibrosis (ACPCF).

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust have worked with the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Cystic Fibrosis (ACPCF) to produce information resources on physiotherapy, to complement the advice and teachings physiotherapists give to people with cystic fibrosis (CF). The information in these leaflets is based on clinical best practice and consensus of opinion by physiotherapists within the ACPCF.

The resources are available to download here and can also be ordered in hard copy from our Helpline.

If you are interested in the techniques described in these resources, we recommend you discuss them with your physiotherapist so that together you can work out the best approach for you.

  • The Acapella® Choice

    The Acapella® Choice is a handheld device, which supports airway clearance for children and adults. This leaflet explains how to carry out your Acapella® treatment.

    Download the leaflet

  • Active Cycles of Breathing Technique

    Active Cycle of Breathing Techniques, or ACBT, is an airway clearance technique. It uses a number of different breathing techniques that, when combined, help to clear sputum from the lungs. This leaflet explains how ACBT works.

    Download the leaflet

  • Airway clearance for babies and young children

    In this leaflet you will find information about the lungs and how cystic fibrosis (CF) affects them. It covers the importance of exercise and airway clearance in babies and young children.

    Download the leaflet

  • Airway clearance plan

    You can fill in this plan with your physiotherapist so you have a record of what you should do for airway clearance.

    Download the leaflet

  • Autogenic drainage

    Autogenic drainage (AD) is a technique that uses changes in your breathing to clear sputum and does not require equipment. This leaflet explains how it works, how to do it and includes diagrams to help you.

    Download the leaflet

  • Bubble PEP

    Bubble PEP is a fun way for children to clear sputum from their lungs. PEP stands for Positive Expiratory Pressure. This leaflet explains how Bubble PEP works.

    Download the leaflet

  • How to improve your posture

    This guide explains the common postural problems that people with cystic fibrosis (CF) can have and shows you how you can improve your posture through simple, effective exercises.

    Please note: We are aware that this information resource is due for a review and update, and we are working on it. Please be assured that the information is still accurate and reliable.

    Available as a PDF download only while we update it. Currently not in print.

    Download the leaflet

  • How to use a PEP mask

    A PEP mask is a hand-held device which supports airway clearance for children and adults. This leaflet explains how a PEP mask works and how to use one.

    Please note: The video link in this leaflet is no longer available and we have no suitable alternative. We apologise for the inconvenience.

    Download the leaflet

  • Inhaled therapies

    This factsheet contains information about inhaled therapies for people with CF. It covers different types of nebulisers and inhalers, types of medication that can be inhaled, and how to look after your nebuliser.

    Download the leaflet

  • Keeping your lungs healthy

    Looking after the chest and keeping the lungs clear is extremely important in cystic fibrosis. This factsheet explains why it is important to keep the lungs clear and the various airway clearance techniques for people with cystic fibrosis. 

    Download the leaflet

  • PARI PEP™

    The PARI PEP™ is a hand held device which supports airway clearance for children and adults. This leaflet explains how PARI PEP™ works and how to use one.

    Download the leaflet

  • Pelvic floor exercises (female)

    This is a guide for strengthening the pelvic floor. It explains what the pelvic floor is, what causes pelvic floor weakness in people with CF and exercises you can do to improve your pelvic floor.

    Download the leaflet

  • Urinary incontinence

    Urinary incontinence may be experienced by women and, to a lesser degree, men with cystic fibrosis. This factsheet explains why urinary incontinence may occur in people with CF, and what help is available. 

    Download the leaflet

  • Further information

    Please take a look at our consensus document, Standards of Care and Good Clinical Practice for the Physiotherapy Management of Cystic Fibrosis for more information on standards of care and good practice in physiotherapy.

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