Postural drainage for children: Lower lobes (back)

Infants: Lay your infant on his or her stomach with the head and upper body flat. Hold him or her steady with one hand. Repeat gentle clapping with a cupped hand over the lower ribs on each side. Keep clapping for 3 to 5 minutes. To prevent the chance of reflux, do not tip your infant so that he or she is in a head-down position.

Toddlers and older: Lay your child on his or her stomach over a pillow with the head and upper body tipped down at a 30-degree angle. Repeat clapping with a cupped hand over the lower ribs for 3 to 5 minutes on each side.

Current as of: November 22, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
John Pope MD - Pediatrics

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