Ballard offers comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation for adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). Our team of pulmonary rehabilitation specialists, led by a physician certified in pulmonary medicine, evaluates each patient and develops a personalized treatment plan.

      We focus on returning patients to productive lifestyles. The goals of our program include:
increasing awareness and management of pulmonary disease.
reducing and controlling symptoms, such as coughing, sputum production and shortness of breath.
improving ability to perform self-care tasks.
increasing daily physical activities.
reducing illness-related anxiety.
motivating patients to achieve and maintain healthy lifestyles.
reducing the need for medical services.

      We treat patients with a variety of diagnoses and needs. Our pulmonary rehabilitation program is designed for patients with:
emphysema.
bronchitis.
asthma.
bronchiectasis.
pulmonary fibrosis.
cystic fibrosis.
chronic neuromuscular respiratory paralysis.

      Other diagnoses are considered on a case-by-case basis. The following criteria are also considered when evaluating patients for admission:
Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1) is 50 percent or less of predicted (inpatient).
FEV1 is 70 percent or less of predicted (outpatient).
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC1) is 55 percent or less of predicted.
significant exercise intolerance or inability to perform daily activities without severe shortness of breath.
willingness to modify current health behaviors to improve lifestyle.

      Patients benefit most when they are highly motivated to regain productive lifestyles. Our program involves both patients and their families in achieving treatment goals and includes:
strengthening muscles used for breathing and exercise.
teaching correct breathing techniques.
reducing anxiety through relaxation training.
assessing support equipment needs and instructing in appropriate use.
developing in-home therapies and exercise programs.
teaching management techniques.
counseling about nutrition and medication.
providing psychosocial support for patients and their families.
networking into local support groups.

      Depending on the severity of the disease, individuals begin either as inpatients or outpatients. Inpatients typically transition to outpatients as they progress toward independence.

      Local and national resources are also available.

      For more information, contact us at (909) 473-1200.