Respiratory Muscle Physiology

Presented by Rich Severin

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A thorough understanding of the physiological systems involved in human movement is necessary for rehabilitation practice. The respiratory system, which includes the lungs, pulmonary vasculature, and respiratory muscles, is a critical physiological system for all movement. There are many disorders encountered in rehabilitation practice where the respiratory system may be involved, such as pulmonary disease, obesity, spinal cord injuries, and even low back pain.

Each course in this series will review a different component of the respiratory system. This course will cover the normal physiology of the respiratory muscles and clinical conditions which may involve the respiratory muscles, as well as assessment techniques and rehabilitation strategies.

Meet your instructor

Rich Severin

Rich Severin PT, DPT, PhD is a board-certified cardiovascular and pulmonary clinical specialist. Dr. Severin serves as clinical faculty in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Illinois at Chicago and is the coordinator of the bariatric surgery rehabilitation program at UIHealth. He is also a part-time…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Respiratory Muscles: An Introduction

1. Respiratory Muscles: An Introduction

This section will review the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory muscles which will be discussed throughout the rest of the course.

Pathology and Clinical Syndromes

2. Pathology and Clinical Syndromes

This section will include a review of the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of common clinical conditions which may involve the respiratory muscles, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obesity, neurological conditions, and low back pain.

Clinical Examination Techniques and Treatment

3. Clinical Examination Techniques and Treatment

This section will provide examination techniques used to assess different aspects of respiratory muscle performance, with video demonstrations. Treatment strategies and techniques will be provided, as well as foundations of exercise programming for the respiratory muscles.