spinal cord injury: costophrenic assist (assisted cough)
getting started
a strong cough is important to help clear the lungs of mucus. if you have a weak cough or a lot of mucus, you may need an assisted cough.
in a costophrenic assist, another person pushes on your rib cage to help you cough. this is done while you are sitting up in a bed or chair. if you're in a wheelchair, be sure to set the brakes and use the seat belt. wait 30 minutes after a meal before you do an assisted cough.
use these steps to do a costophrenic assist.
- your caregiver places their hands on the lowest part of your rib cage, with their fingers wrapped around your sides and their thumbs pointing toward the centre of your chest.
- you take a deep breath and hold it until the caregiver tells you to cough.
- when you cough, the caregiver quickly and firmly squeezes your ribs, pushing down and in and holding for 3 seconds. it may take practice to coordinate your cough with the motion.
talk to your doctor before trying this. some people shouldn't try an assisted cough. this may include those who:
- are in pain.
- have a chest or back injury, such as an unstable spinal injury or a broken rib.
- had recent surgery.
- have osteoporosis.
- are pregnant.
current as of: august 6, 2023
author: healthwise staff
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