Noves propostes terapèutiques en fisioteràpia de les malalties respiratòries infantils

Background. Pediatric respiratory physiotherapy is a specialty based on scientific evidence. While it is well developed in most of European countries, it is now beginning to gain recognition in our country. 

Objective. To present a new scientifically-validated modality of treatment in pediatric respiratory phisiotherapy that complements medical treatment in the management of intra and extra-thoracic secretions. 

Method. Bibliography review of the data published over the last 15 years on pediatric respiratory diseases, including their incidence, medical and physiotherapeutic treatment, and new therapeutic approaches. 

Results. Over the last 10 years, there has been a significant change in the evaluations, diagnoses, and treatment modalities used by physiotherapists for the management of pediatric respiratory diseases. Treatments based on scientific evidences have shown that commonly used techniques such as postural drainage or clapping are no longer valid, and new techniques based on the modifications of the expiratory flow are more effective and carry fewer complications. 

Conclusions. Advances in health care and health professions require the incorporation of evidence-based treatments. Respiratory physiotherapy has evolved, and new treatment approaches should be incorporated in pediatrics.