The Baptist Hospital East Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program helps pulmonary patients return to and maintain their optimal health through a combination of proper diet, exercise and control of daily stress.

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is divided into three phases:

Phase I

Phase I is an exercise and education program which begins at orientation. Exercise prescriptions are developed to meet individual needs, and can include aerobic exercise such as walking and biking. Education about the lungs and specific lung conditions are discussed. Diet sessions are also included to teach patients about proper diet and stress management.

Phase II

Phase II consists of monitored exercises, diet consultation, education and counseling. You may begin the program after orientation. Three monitored exercise sessions per week will be held for eight weeks.

Phase III

Phase III is available for patients who need additional help maintaining a proper exercise schedule. Phase III hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Spouses may also participate in Phase III with their physician's permission. Phase III is not covered by insurance.

Warming up

Before exercising, patients should perform warm-up exercises and stretching to prepare for walking or riding a bike. Warming up will prevent injury and raise the patient's heart levels for exercise.

Exercise at a comfortable pace

Each patient has an individual exercise program which should be followed closely to avoid injury or overexertion. Exercise should be done only when staff members are present. Patients will use treadmills, stationary bicycles, Airdyne bicycles and arm ergometers during exercise. Staff is available to help with equipment and easy-to-follow instructions are available on each piece of equipment.

Cooling down after exercise

Just as stretching is important before exercising, it is equally important after exercising. Muscles must be stretched after exercise to prevent cramping. Stretching after exercise also increases flexibility.

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program helps patients maintain a healthier, happier lifestyle. Physician referral is required for all phases of the program. For more information, call (502) 897-8817.

Persons with COPD may wish to attend a free monthly support group, A Breath of Life II, which meets at the Baptist East/Milestone Wellness Center, 750 Cypress Station Drive.

For more information on the A Breath of Life II Support Group, call the Baptist East Information Center at (502) 897-8131.