Australia
A 30-year-old female asked:
Can hitting or tapping your back help relieve plurisey? my partner does this for me and it helps but is it good to do?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Donald Alvesanswered
Emergency Medicine 26 years experience
Feels good, do it: Short answer is yes. Mechanical percussion helps to break up and mobilize mucus in the chest and "sticky" spots to reduce pleuritic pain. It is best done "posturally" -- meaning with the bottom of your lungs higher than the top. Simple way is to build wedge of pillows and lie knees-bent, head-down while getting thumped on. When done well (not too hard), it also feels good, so why not?!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 4, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.