A 2024 study published in the journal PLOS Global Public Health indicated a significant occurrence of respiratory symptoms among individuals in India who had recovered from acute illness. Notably, shortness of breath was reported by 49.3 per cent of participants, while 27.1 per cent experienced persistent cough, even after an average duration of over two months post-recovery.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

Imagine struggling to catch breath, with each inhale resembling a workout. That’s the daily reality for many living with chronic lung conditions like COPD, asthma, or pulmonary fibrosis. But here’s where pulmonary rehabilitation comes in—it's not just a treatment; it’s a lifeline that extends a pathway to rediscovering the joy of each breath. 

 

Related story: Rehabilitiation Therapies at UR.Life To Ease Lower Back Pain

 

What is Pulmonary Rehabilitation?

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive and multifaceted program meticulously designed for individuals grappling with chronic lung conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and various other respiratory illnesses. This program combines a thoughtful blend of structured exercise regimens, specialised breathing techniques, educational workshops, and counselling sessions, all tailored to enhance the overall quality of life. 

The primary objective of pulmonary rehabilitation is not to provide a cure for lung disease but rather to empower participants to breathe more easily, increase their physical activity, and minimise hospital visits through effective symptom management. By engaging in a systematic and supportive rehabilitation process, individuals acquire valuable skills and knowledge—learning techniques to conserve energy during daily activities, strategies to alleviate feelings of breathlessness, and practical tips for managing everyday tasks with greater comfort and less strain. 

 

Related story: Cardiac Rehabilitation: Heal Your Heart At UR.Life

 

Procedures in Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a multifaceted program tailored to each individual’s unique health needs and goals. While the core components centre on exercise and education, the program is comprehensive, addressing all aspects of well-being impacted by chronic lung conditions. 

Here’s a closer look at what typically happens in a pulmonary rehabilitation program:

 

1. Exercise
Aerobic Training: Engaging in activities such as brisk walking, cycling, or utilising a treadmill can significantly enhance cardiovascular health and boost overall endurance. This form of training strengthens the heart and optimises lung function, allowing them to operate with greater efficiency. As a result, it can alleviate common symptoms like shortness of breath, leading to improved stamina and a more active lifestyle.
Strength Training: Incorporating light weights or resistance bands into a workout regimen focuses on building muscular strength, particularly in the muscles that play a crucial role in breathing and movement. This type of training empowers individuals to perform daily tasks with increased ease and reduced physical strain. By developing core muscle groups, patients can experience greater independence and confidence in their physical abilities.
Flexibility and Balance Exercises: These exercises are essential for enhancing joint flexibility and improving overall balance, which can significantly lower the risk of falls. By promoting a greater range of motion, individuals can move more comfortably and safely through their daily activities.

2. Breathing Exercises
Pursed-Lip Breathing: This technique involves breathing in through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips, helping to slow down breathing and prevent shortness of breath.
Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing: Patients learn to engage the diaphragm more effectively, which can reduce the effort of breathing and improve oxygen intake.
Breath-Control Techniques: Other techniques may be introduced to help regain control over breathing during flare-ups or anxiety-induced shortness of breath.

3. Chest Physiotherapy and Airway Clearance
Airway Clearance Techniques: Think of your lungs as a bustling highway that needs to be clear for smooth traffic flow. Techniques like flutter devices and postural drainage act like traffic controllers, helping to remove mucus buildup. 

4. Chest Percussion and Vibration: Imagine a gentle rhythm being played on your chest – that's what chest percussion and vibration feel like! These hands-on techniques, often carried out by a skilled physical therapist, help loosen stubborn mucus, making it much easier to cough up and clear from your airways. It’s like giving your lungs a helping hand to breathe better!

5. Nutrition & Counselling: Dietary counselling is provided by the experts to help individuals adopt and follow a healthy diet. Proper nutrition is essential to maintain heart health along with breathing and energy levels. Dietitians also craft personalised nutrition plans as per the person’s condition and needs to prevent further complications.

6. Lifestyle Modifications: Healthcare professionals offer detailed advice on balanced diet, strategies to cease smoking and also manage weight and stress. To reduce stress, patients learn mindfulness and relaxation techniques. 

7. Home Exercises: Once rehab sessions are done in the centre, patients are suggested to perform home exercises as well to continue their physical activity. 
Continuous Monitoring: Regular follow ups are conducted to track progress, adjust the session as required, or to address any issues that may happen during the treatment. 

Pulmonary rehabilitation goes beyond traditional therapies, embracing a holistic approach that blends exercise, breathing techniques, education, and lifestyle changes. It’s designed to empower those with lung conditions, helping them regain strength and resilience. By enhancing lung capacity and overall physical condition, this program paves the way for improved quality of life, offering not just relief but also renewed hope. 

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

 

Rehabilitation Programs Offered At UR.Life

UR Life Studio offers the following programs under its Lifestyle Management and Therapeutic Programs (LMTP) unit:

• Cardiac Rehabilitation
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation
• Neuro Rehabilitation
• Ortho Rehabilitation
• Paediatric Rehabilitation
• Geriatric Rehabilitation
• Obesity Management
• Diabetes management

 
The following are the USPs of LMTP:

• Holistic Rehabilitation Approach: involves the medical, physical, and mental aspects of overall health
• Telemetry Supervised Rehabilitation: a state-of-the-art technique to provide optimal health care
• Hydrotherapy
• Six Minutes Walk Test
• Hydraulics (circuit training studio)
• VO2 max testing (equipment under servicing)
• Myo motion analysis (equipment under servicing)
• Detailed Physical Assessment
• Wellbeing Counselling
• Diet Counselling