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Postural Drainage: Lower Lobes (Back)

Picture of postural drainage for the lower lobes (back)

Illustration adapted with permission from the University of Wisconsin Medical School.

Infants: Lay your infant on his or her stomach with the head and upper body flat. Clap with a cupped hand over the lower ribs and behind the armpit on each side. In order to prevent the chance of reflux, do not tip your infant so that he or she is in a head-down position for postural drainage.

Toddlers and older: Lay your child on his or her stomach with the head and upper body tipped down at a 30-degree angle. Clap with a cupped hand over the lower ribs and behind the armpit on each side.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Catherine O'Malley, RRT - Respiratory Therapy
Last Revised June 9, 2011

Last Revised: June 9, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics & Catherine O'Malley, RRT - Respiratory Therapy

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