A consistent program of appropriate exercise and lifestyle modifications
is the key to pulmonary health. The pulmonary health program at St. John’s
Health provides progressive phases of exercise under medical supervision
and education for pulmonary patients.
You may be a candidate for pulmonary rehab if you have been diagnosed with:
Asthma
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Cystic fibrosis
Bronchitis
Other forms of lung disease
St. John’s Health’s pulmonary health rehabilitation program
is designed to provide a safe and supervised exercise environment to enhance
lung function. Patients exercise as prescribed by their physician and
as their condition warrants. Exercise programs are specifically designed
to meet the individual patient’s needs and goals. The pulmonary
health staff is Advanced Cardiopulmonary Life Support certified, and the
clinic is fully equipped to handle emergency situations. Individualized
education is provided by respiratory therapists, nurses, physical therapists
and other health care providers.
How It Works
Our pulmonary health program consists of three important elements.
Cardiovascular exercise
Resistance and flexibility training
Group and/or individual education
Exercise is generally scheduled for two sessions per week for up to twelve
weeks. Each session includes pulse oximetry, blood pressure and perceived
exertion monitoring during exercise as appropriate.
Cardiovascular exercise may include treadmill walking, bicycling and upper
body cycling. Resistance training with free weights and weight machines
increases functional capacity. Flexibility training is incorporated to
improve posture and function. Education provided is based on diagnosis,
individual needs and personal risk factors.
Pulmonary education may include:
Lung anatomy and physiology
Lung disease
Nutrition
Energy Conservation
Use of mucus clearing devices
Medications
Home Exercise program
Infection control
Stress Management
We also encourage our pulmonary health program graduates to visit anytime
to share their experiences with our current patients.
How to Sign Up
Please visit with your doctor to see if you are a candidate for pulmonary
health. Many insurance companies will cover the cost of this program.
You will need a doctor’s prescription to participate in our pulmonary
health program.
Call
307.739.7695 for more information, or to set up an appointment.
