Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

Self care, independence and a more normal lifestyle are the goals of Missouri Rehabilitation Center's pulmonary rehabilitation program. Many patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory illnesses can be helped to live a fuller, more comfortable life through education, exercise and the application of more energy-conserving practices

Education

Patients learn about the nature of respiratory disease and what to expect

Hygiene

To prevent infections, patients are trained to perform certain hygienic practices

Diet and exercise

Patients learn about balanced diets and which foods to avoid because of their condition. Patients are taught functional exercises, using proper technique to ensure proper breathing and energy conservation

Breathing training

Patients learn to develop greater breathing capacity through use of the diaphragm and to conserve energy in going about their daily activities

Relaxation techniques

Patients learn to deal with the psychological aspects of their diseases, particularly the distress that occurs when there is shortness of breath

Smoking cessation

The need to stop smoking is addressed as a regular part of the program. Practical ideas and moral support are provided to the patient who wants to quit

Evaluation

Physical evaluations, stress tests and blood gas tests are completed when the patient enters the program.

Patients are treated on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Anyone with a breathing problem is eligible.