Role of Physiotherapy in the ICU The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is a place where patients are treated for serious, life-threatening conditions. These patients often cannot move, breathe, or eat on their own. While doctors and nurses manage the medical care, physiotherapists play a vital role in helping the body stay strong and recover faster. What Does a Physiotherapist Do in the ICU? 1. Improves Lung Function: ICU patients may have difficulty breathing, especially if they are on a ventilator. Physiotherapists use chest therapy, breathing exercises, and special positioning to keep the lungs clear and improve oxygen levels. 2. Prevents Muscle Weakness: When a patient lies in bed for too long, muscles become weak and stiff. Physiotherapists help move the arms, legs, and joints to keep them flexible and strong, even if the patient is unconscious. 3. Supports Early Movement: As soon as the patient is stable, physiotherapists help them sit up, stand, or walk (if possible). This early mobilization helps in faster recovery and reduces the risk of complications like blood clots or bed sores. 4. Helps with Neurological Conditions: Patients with stroke, brain injury, or spinal cord injury often need special physiotherapy to restore movements, balance, and coordination. ICU physiotherapists begin this process early. 5. Aids in Ventilator Weaning: Physiotherapy can make the breathing muscles stronger and clear secretions from the lungs, helping the patient come off the ventilator sooner. Why is This Important? Without physiotherapy: • The lungs may get infected. • Muscles may waste away. • Recovery time becomes longer. • The patient may remain weak even after ICU discharge. Physiotherapy in the ICU reduces these risks and improves the overall recovery rate. At Physionautics, our trained physiotherapists: • Visit patients in the ICU • Provide advanced respiratory and movement therapy • Support faster discharge and recovery • Continue rehabilitation after ICU in our clinics We work with hospitals and doctors to provide complete care for every ICU patient.