Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehab is a medical program for people with long-term (chronic) lung diseases. It may also be used before or after lung surgery. It may also help improve lung function in people with scoliosis.

Pulmonary rehab is used for lung conditions such as:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), like emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
• Interstitial lung disease, like pulmonary sarcoidosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
• Cystic fibrosis.
• Pulmonary hypertension.

Pulmonary rehab can help people:

• Have fewer symptoms and complications.
• Need fewer ER visits and hospital stays.
• Improve daily function.
• Be as independent as possible.
• Have a better quality of life.
• Reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Pulmonary rehab programs may be held at hospitals. Or they may be held at other facilities. They may be used as part of a stay in a hospital or rehab facility (inpatient). Or you may come for rehab sessions and go home after (outpatient). The rehab team may include:

• A pulmonologist. This is a lung disease doctor.
• A thoracic surgeon. This doctor specializes in chest surgeries.
• A physiatrist. This is a rehab specialist.
• Internists and family doctors.
• Nurses.
• Respiratory therapists.
• Dietitians or nutritionists.
• Physical therapists.
• Occupational therapists.
• Social workers.
• Other therapists and counselors.

These programs are designed to meet your specific needs. It is best if both you and your family are involved.

Rehab programs may include:

• Help with medicine.
• Breathing exercises. These can improve lung function and help you do daily activities.
• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility.
• Weight training. This can help you improve muscle strength and increase exercise endurance and conditioning.
• Exercise machines.
• Education and counseling for you and your family. This includes disease information and self-management skills.
• Help to stop smoking.
• Stress management and emotional support.
• Nutritional counseling.
• Help with home respiratory equipment like oxygen equipment and supplies, airway clearance devices, and nebulizers.
• Job or work counseling.