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Postural Drainage: Lower Lobes (Sides)

Picture of postural drainage for the lower lobes (sides).

Illustration adapted with permission from the University of Wisconsin Medical School

Infants: Lay your infant on his or her side, being sure to keep the head and upper body as flat as possible. Clap with a cupped hand below the armpit on each side. 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 side, with the head and upper body tipped down at a 30-degree angle. Clap with a cupped hand below 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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