If you have a chronic lung disease, this exercise and education program can help you live with more comfort and independence. If you are ready to improve the quality of your life and your doctor considers you medically stable, ask about a referral to this program. Once you have been referred, the Pulmonary Rehab Coordinator will contact you to learn more about your needs.
To refer a new patient to
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Call 603-354-6730
or fax a referral to 603-354-6636
Professional team approach
Our team of medical professionals work together to help you improve many areas of your life, so you can live better with lung disease. Depending on your individual needs and goals, your team may include:
- Exercise specialist
- Medical director
- Occupational therapist
- Pharmacist
- Physical therapist and assistant
- Psychologist
- Pulmonary rehab coordinator
- Pulmonologist
- Registered dietitian
- Registered respiratory therapist
Initial evaluation
Your team will create an education and exercise program for your specific needs. To do this they will first assess your health, which may include functional testing—such as a six-minute walk test, sit-to-stand test and other tests—as well as labs and a chest X-ray.
Individualized exercise program
You will take part in 24 sessions of an exercise program designed to fit the level of activity that is right for you. We will track your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and shortness of breath while you exercise in our gym.
Your initial evaluation helps us design your exercise workload. Your workout intensity will increase as you progress through the program.
Each session includes warm-ups, aerobic conditioning, upper-body strength training, and a cool down. You will use upper- and lower-body exercises and stretches. We will also provide one gentle yoga and guided imagery session.
A range of exercise equipment is available in our gym, including:
- Arm and leg ergometers
- Ellipticals
- NUSTEP machines
- Stationary bikes
- Treadmills
Your therapists will design a personalized strengthening program for you. You will also receive an exercise program appropriate for home.
Education for living with chronic lung disease
This program also includes stress management, group support, and education on topics including:
- Activities of daily living
- Anatomy and physiology
- Breathing retraining
- Nutrition
- Osteoporosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Symptom control
- Use of medications, inhalers, and oxygen
- Warning signs of infection