Having chronic lung disease, or COPD, does not mean you have to give up an active and independent lifestyle. This program can help you maintain your independence through exercise and education.
Studies show our pulmonary program can:
- Reduce shortness of breath and fatigue.
- Enhance your sense of control over COPD.
- Improve your exercise capacity.
- Improve your quality of life.
Who will work with you?
EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine specializes in the individual medical, emotional and social needs of pulmonary patients.
Trained staff members monitor heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and medical symptoms while working toward accomplishing each patient’s exercise goals. Together, with our knowledgeable staff, patients participate in a comprehensive strength and conditioning program, which is designed to meet individual needs.
Patients and their families learn:
- Proper breathing and bronchial hygiene.
- Work simplification and energy conservation techniques.
- How medications work and possible side effects.
- Proper nutrition for general health and easier breathing.
- Skills for coping with the emotional aspects of having a chronic condition.
- The benefits of gradual and monitored exercise to increase muscle strength and endurance.
How long does the program last?
Patients undergo an initial assessment and participate in a conference with our staff before beginning the physical therapy program, which takes eight to 10 weeks. Following the pulmonary program, patients can continue on a maintenance program for a minimal fee at their local recreation center.
What is the cost?
Medicare and most other insurance carriers provide coverage for pulmonary rehabilitation. Check with your insurance carrier about coverage.
Improve your quality of life
The pulmonary program aims to:
- Assist you in performing tasks of daily living, such as household chores, with more ease.
- Help you learn to manage your symptoms and medications.
- Increase your aerobic endurance so you can do more of the things you enjoy.
Who qualifies?
- Any person with a diagnosis of pulmonary disease and an order from his or her primary care provider or pulmonologist.
The program
The program consists of outpatient physical therapy, beginning with tests to assess the patient’s fitness level. The patient typically participates in two exercise sessions per week and one educational session per month.
Program features include:
- Education on breathing techniques.
- Aerobic exercise to increase endurance.
- Flexibility and strength training to improve fitness.
- Monitoring before, during and after all exercise.
- Maintenance care after completion is necessary to continue with progress achieved in the program.