Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Introduction

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 (PFT’s) or overall oxygen requirements for individuals.