Physiotherapy Management of Adults with Asthma: A Survey of New Zealand Practice

Abstract

The role of physiotherapy in adult asthma management in New Zealand is unknown. Contemporary guidelines, including NZ Adolescent and Adult Asthma Guidelines (NZA & AAG), make little reference to physiotherapy. An electronic survey was undertaken to explore the role of physiotherapy in New Zealand in the management of adults with asthma, including what assessment and management techniques were used, self-reported confidence in these techniques, and guiding documents that informed practice. Findings from 59 respondents indicated that New Zealand physiotherapists were not only undertaking generic assessment and management techniques but provided a unique physiotherapy-specific role including breathing retraining and airway clearance techniques. Areas of reduced confidence were identified to guide future training and advanced practice. Physiotherapists were also well placed to influence social determinants at a policy level. While the response rate was limited, this study provides a useful insight into physiotherapy practice in New Zealand in the management of adults with asthma and identifies areas for more holistic practice, as well as future professional advancement.