Physiotherapy secretion removal techniques in people with spinal cord injury: a systematic review.

Summary: For people living with chronic spinal cord injuries (SCI), clearing mucus from the lungs is a major challenge due to weakened muscles. A recent review of 24 medical studies looked for the best ways to help these patients breathe easier. While high-quality research is still scarce, the findings are encouraging. Techniques that combine "mechanical coughing" machines with manual pressure on the chest seem to work best. Additionally, exercises designed to strengthen breathing muscles and electrical stimulation to help muscles contract show promise in keeping airways clear.