Active Cycle Of Breathing Technique What is active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT)? It is a breathing technique that aids in clearing phlegm from chest. It is performed as a cycle that loosens and moves the phlegm towards your mouth until your chest feels clear. Who needs it? People with lung conditions who produce more phlegm than usual. Secretion retention increases the risk of chest infection. What position should I do ACBT in? Choose a comfortable and relaxed position (Fig. 1) or the specific position as advised by your physiotherapist.
(Fig.1) Sit comfortably in a chair
How long should I do ACBT for? Aim to continue ACBT for 2-3 cycles, ideally until you feel the phlegm has cleared, or until you are tired. How Often Do I Need To Perform? When you are well, do ACBT only once or twice a day. When you have more phlegm, do it more often to keep your chest reasonably clear.
ACBT consists of 3 phases: 1. Breathing control Relax your shoulders and rest one hand on your stomach. Breathe in quietly and gently through your nose. Perform it between Deep Breathing and Huffing to keep your airways relaxed.
(Fig.2) Deep breaths
3. Huff 2. Deep Breathing Keep your shoulders and upper chest relaxed. Breathe in slowly and deeply until you feel the lower chest expand, hold for 2-3 seconds.
To ‘huff’ you squeeze all the air quickly from your lungs, out through your open mouth and throat. Use your tummy muscles to help you squeeze the air out.
Breathe out gently in a relaxed manner, like a sigh. Do 3-5 deep breaths. (Fig. 2) Disclaimer: Exercises illustrated and instructed in this handout are strictly for designated patient based on the assessment and instruction of the therapist. If you have any doubts, please contact your therapist.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities in the north of Singapore, under the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
REHAB.PE.PT.059.0320