If you have shortness of breath because of lung problems, pulmonary rehabilitation can help.
Whether your goal is to manage symptoms of a lung condition or get back on your feet after lung surgery, Baystate Health's Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program can help you improve your quality of life.
Our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is the only independent, multidisciplinary pulmonary rehab program in western Massachusetts.
It’s also one of the few in Massachusetts certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.
A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO YOUR CARE
We provide a complete approach to managing chronic lung diseases such as:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Chronic bronchitis
- Asthma
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Interstitial lung disease
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Cystic fibrosis
- Bronchiectasis.
Our team of pulmonary rehab specialists includes registered nurses, registered respiratory therapists, certified exercise physiologists, dietitians, as well as a medical director. We’ll work closely with you and your doctor to help you reach your goals.
Pulmonary rehab plans typically include:
- Education
- Exercise
- Nutrition counseling
- Stress management
- Methods for clearing your airways (bronchial hygiene therapy)
We’ll help you manage your breathing problem, increase your energy, and decrease your breathlessness. You’ll learn how to pace your breathing with your activities. You’ll also learn how to take your medicines and talk with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and treatment.
Is Pulmonary Rehabilitation Right for You?
Your doctor will decide if you are a candidate for pulmonary rehab based on:
- Reviewing your overall health
- Looking at your lung function test results
- Talking with you about your willingness and ability to come to regular rehab appointments
We’ll create a custom program for both pre- and post-surgery, as well as for ongoing disease management. After pulmonary rehab, people are often amazed at how their breathing has improved and how much they can exercise. When you’re done with your rehabilitation program, your rehab team will create a long-term plan so that you keep exercising and maintaining your health.