Respiratory health resources for patients, family members, and caregivers
In this section, Shepherd Center shares a shares a wealth of educational materials for patients, families, and caregivers related to respiratory health for people with spinal cord injury or brain injury.
When a person has experienced a catastrophic injury or certain neurological diseases, they may have trouble with lung congestion and breathing. This happens because there may be weak breathing muscles. This weakness makes it more difficult to take a deep breath or cough.
The information provided on this website is not meant to replace the advice and recommendations from a medical professional. Please consult your healthcare provider regarding specific medical conditions or treatment.
In this section
- Breathing before injury: How breathing function typically works before injury and how it may change after a brain or spinal cord injury.
- Breathing treatments and exercises: Explore assisted cough techniques, ventilator and non-ventilator treatments, deep breathing exercises, and airway clearance methods like postural drainage, clapping, and vibration.
- Cleaning equipment: Proper techniques for cleaning respiratory equipment and suction catheters to ensure safe use.
- Diaphragm pacing system: How diaphragm pacing systems can help improve breathing, including risks and benefits, conditioning, and troubleshooting.
- Suctioning techniques: Clean and sterile suctioning techniques for clearing airways and maintaining respiratory health.
- Tracheostomy care: Guidance on tracheal humidification, using a tracheostomy button or plug, and emergency tube replacement.
- Ventilator management: Understand ventilator settings, portable ventilator charging, and how to secure a trach on a ventilator.