01/19/2026
Good morning!! Interesting read. 🙌🏽
🌿 Postural Drainage: Overview
Purpose:
Uses gravity to drain mucus from specific lung segments
Improves oxygenation and breathing efficiency
Reduces risk of infection by clearing secretions
Components:
Body Positioning → targets different lobes of lungs
Percussion / Vibration → loosens mucus
Coughing / Huffing → clears mucus out of airways
🔹 Positions for Different Lung Segments
Lung Segment Body Position Notes
Upper Lobes – Apical Segments Sit upright, lean slightly back Claps over collarbone / upper chest
Upper Lobes – Posterior Segments Lean forward on pillows 30–45° Claps between shoulder blades
Upper Lobes – Anterior Segments Lie on back, pillow under knees Claps over upper chest
Middle Lobe – Right Lung Lie on left side, quarter-turned back, foot of bed elevated 12–16 inches Claps on right chest, below ni**le
Lingula – Left Lung Lie on right side, quarter-turned back, foot of bed elevated 12–16 inches Claps over left chest, below ni**le
Lower Lobes – Anterior Basal Lie on side, head down, foot of bed elevated 18 inches Claps over lower ribs
Lower Lobes – Posterior Basal Lie on stomach, head down, foot of bed elevated 18 inches Claps over lower back ribs
Lower Lobes – Lateral Basal Lie on opposite side, head down, foot elevated 18 inches Claps over side ribs
Lower Lobes – Superior Segments Lie on stomach, bed flat Claps between shoulder blades
Positions are typically held for 5–10 minutes per segment, depending on tolerance and secretion level.
🔹 Percussion & Vibration Technique
Percussion: Cup hands, lightly clap over targeted segment, 20–30 sec per area
Vibration: Place hand on chest wall, gently press and vibrate during exhalation
Followed by: Deep breathing + controlled coughing / huffing to expel mucus
🔹 Tips for Safe Postural Drainage
Perform 2–3 times daily or as prescribed
Avoid after heavy meals → reduces discomfort
Elevate head slightly if prone to acid reflux
Children & elderly may require gentle positioning
Combine with hydration & breathing exercises
🌿 Benefits
Clears airway secretions efficiently
Reduces risk of infection and lung complications
Improves breathing, oxygenation, and exercise tolerance
Enhances effectiveness of chest physiotherapy