St. Francis Hospital’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation out-patient program helps patients with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, complicated asthma, pulmonary fibrosis and other chronic lung diseases, live as fully and independently as possible.
Candidates for our physician-prescribed program include anyone whose activities are limited by chronic lung disease and shortness of breath. Our program may also be ideal for people with lung disorders who need conditioning in preparation for, or recovery after, different types of lung surgery.
We offer alternatives beyond medication, oxygen therapy and breathing aids. Our respiratory specialists work with patients and their doctors to develop an individualized plan to improve physical fitness and exercise tolerance to reduce hospitalization and to lessen the impact of lung disease.
Patients are provided with education (lectures, discussions and literature) and medically supervised exercise sessions in a supportive environment designed specifically for those with lung problems. The monitored exercise sessions (which included warm-up and cool down exercises, chest mobilization and monitored progressive cardiovascular exercises) are easily incorporated into their personal program. Family involvement is strongly welcomed and encouraged.
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Conditions Treated
- Emphysema
- Chronic bronchitis
- Complicated asthma
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Chronic lung disease
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Key Treatments
Pursed-lip breathing
With this exercise, inhaling in through the nose and exhaling out through pursed lips makes breathing easier. It can also help you regain control if you’re having trouble catching your breath.
Treadmill
The use of this exercise machine helps increase endurance, cardiovascular function and muscle strength. The machine also increases strength in the muscles that are used the most during walking.
Stationary bike
This exercise equipment can increase overall fitness; strength, endurance also builds leg muscles.
Arm ergometry
Described as a bicycle for the arms, patients use this machine to strengthen upper body muscles (forearms, chest, and back). Wattage/tension and repetitions are usually determined according to the patient’s ability.
Muscle training
These exercises include bench pressing, leg extension and lateral pull-downs. They helps build and restore the body around the lungs, so that the more muscle patients have to power the body, the more strength and effort they have to walk.
Stress management
Specialists help patients become aware of their anxiety levels, which is accompanied by Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Patients are encouraged not to become anxious when they have shortness of breath.
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Contact the Department of Pulmonary Rehabilitation
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