Pulmonary rehabilitation care: Current perspective

Exercise training

This component involves a structured program of physical activity tailored to meet the individual needs and abilities of each patient. Exercise training can include a variety of activities such as walking, cycling, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Exercise training helps to improve exercise tolerance, reduce shortness of breath, and improve muscle strength and endurance. The exercise targets different aspects of physical function and overall health. 8

Aerobic exercise

Also known as cardio exercise, is any activity that increases heart rate and breathing rate for an extended period of time. Examples include walking, cycling, swimming, and jogging. Aerobic exercise is important for patients with chronic respiratory diseases as it helps to improve cardiovascular health, increase lung function, and reduce shortness of breath. During pulmonary rehabilitation, patients gradually increase the intensity and duration of their aerobic exercise, starting with low-intensity activities. 9

Resistance exercise

Involves using weights, resistance bands, or body weight to build muscle strength and endurance. Examples include squats, lunges, and bicep curls. Resistance exercise is important for patients with chronic respiratory diseases as it helps to improve overall physical function, increase muscle strength, and reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. Patients typically start with low-intensity resistance exercises during pulmonary rehabilitation and gradually increase the intensity and number of repetitions over time. 10

Flexibility exercise

Involves stretching and lengthening muscles to improve range of motion and reduce the risk of injury. Examples include yoga, Pilates, and static stretching. Flexibility exercise is important for patients with chronic respiratory diseases as it can help to improve posture, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall physical function. Patients engage in a variety of flexibility exercises designed to target specific muscle groups during pulmonary rehabilitation. 11

Breathing exercises

Breathing exercises are designed to help patients learn to breathe more efficiently, reduce shortness of breath, and improve lung function. Two commonly used breathing techniques in pulmonary rehabilitation are pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing.

Pursed-lip breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is a breathing technique that involves exhaling through pursed lips. To perform pursed-lip breathing, patients take a deep breath in through their nose and then exhale slowly through pursed lips, as if blowing out a candle. This technique is used to help slow down the rate of breathing, reduce shortness of breath, and improve oxygen exchange in the lungs. Pursed-lip breathing can be particularly helpful for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other chronic respiratory diseases, as it can help to reduce feelings of breathlessness and improve exercise tolerance. It can also help patients to relax and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.

Diaphragmatic breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, is a breathing technique that involves using the diaphragm to breathe instead of the chest muscles. To perform diaphragmatic breathing, patients lie down or sit comfortably with one hand on their chest and the other on their belly. They take a slow, deep breath in through their nose, allowing their belly to rise and expand, and then exhale slowly through their mouth, letting their belly fall. Diaphragmatic breathing is used to help patients with chronic respiratory diseases improve their breathing efficiency, reduce feelings of breathlessness, and improve lung function. By using the diaphragm to breathe instead of the chest muscles, patients can take deeper breaths and increase the amount of oxygen that enters their lungs. Diaphragmatic breathing can also help to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. 12

Benefits of breathing techniques in pulmonary rehabilitation: 13, 14

Improved breathing control and efficiency

Increased lung capacity and oxygen uptake

Reduced shortness of breath

Improved exercise tolerance and endurance

Reduced anxiety and stress

Improved relaxation and sleep

Improved cough effectiveness

Improved secretion clearance

Reduced risk of respiratory infections

Education

Education can also provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage their condition effectively. For instance, individuals with COPD can benefit from education on proper breathing techniques, medication management, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and regular physical activity. Education can also provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage their condition during exacerbations or flare-ups.

Self-management

Self-management skills can include medication adherence, symptom monitoring, and recognizing early warning signs of exacerbations. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs often incorporate self-management techniques such as pulmonary rehabilitation exercises, relaxation techniques, and goal-setting strategies. These techniques can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. 15, 16, 17

Nutritional counselling

Proper nutrition is important for patients with chronic respiratory diseases to maintain good health and manage symptoms. Patients may receive guidance about maintaining a healthy diet, managing weight, and avoiding foods that may trigger symptoms. Here are some ways in which nutritional counselling can benefit individuals with these conditions: 18

Managing weight

Weight management is essential for individuals with COPD and asthma as excess weight can worsen symptoms and reduce lung function. Nutritional counselling can help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight by providing them with information about healthy eating habits and portion control.

Managing comorbidities

Individuals with COPD and asthma are at increased risk of developing comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Nutritional counselling can help manage these conditions by providing individuals with information about the impact of diet on these conditions and strategies for preventing and managing them.

Monitoring and progression

Are are important aspects of exercise training in pulmonary rehabilitation. Patients may be monitored using a heart rate monitor or pulse oximeter to ensure they are exercising at an appropriate level and to prevent overexertion. Patients may also rate their perceived exertion level to help healthcare providers adjust the intensity of their exercise program. As patients progress through their pulmonary rehabilitation program, the intensity and duration of their exercise program may be adjusted to ensure continued progress. Patients may work with a physical therapist or other healthcare providers to develop a personalized exercise program that meets their individual needs and goals. 20