Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehabilitation has clear benefits for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A comprehensive program includes exercise training in endurance and strength, education, nutrition counseling, and psycho-social support / counseling.

Numerous studies have documented improvement in symptoms, maximum oxygen consumption, and quality-of-life measures. A decrease in the number of hospitalizations has also been shown in patients who participate in pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

Benefits do vary among individuals, however, and consistent participation in an exercise regimen is necessary to maintain improvements. In addition, it has not been shown that pulmonary rehabilitation produces any change in pulmonary functions tests (PFTs) or overall oxygen requirements for individuals.

Program Information

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia is specifically designed for individuals with chronic lung disease. The program offers exercise training, education, nutrition counseling, and a monthly support group.

Our team of health care providers assists individuals in designing and implementing a comprehensive, personalized program. Our goal is to help you achieve optimal physical functioning and improved quality of life, with an emphasis on collaborative selfmanagement of your disease. Potential benefits include:

• maximization of strength, endurance, and flexibility,
• decreased symptoms of breathlessness,
• decreased effort for the activities of daily living, and
• increased energy to partake in hobbies, and social/family activities.

Our education programs provide you with information on:

• medications,
• signs and symptoms of infection,
• pathology of lung disease, proper nutrition,
• energy conservation,
• relaxation training,
• breathing retraining and secretions management,
• oxygen delivery systems, and
• travel and environmental issues.

In addition, individual and group support sessions offer you a forum to discuss and share the frustrations and limitations of lung disease, while helping you to increase self confidence, independence, and overall emotional well being. Family and significant others are encouraged to participate.