Ipek Candemir

By Ipek Candemir

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an evidenced-based, proven treatment as mentioned recent guidelines in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Exercise training is a cornerstone of PR programs, Inspiratory muscle training, neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) are effective in selected patients. Water-based rehabilitation and tai chi are well tolerated recent modalities. Although there is an absence of a specific PR protocol for special conditions, PR is recommended before and also after endobronchial volume reduction (EBVR), lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS), both before and after lung transplantation periods, before, after surgery, during the intensive care unit (ICU) period, the chemotherapy period and as a component of palliative care. After COPD exacerbation, it is recommended within 3 weeks of hospital discharge. Modifying PR programs while considering comorbidities might lead to greater improvement in outcomes. After PR, the important points are to follow prescribed home exercise programs, control programs in the PR center/unit, and being more active in daily living life for the purpose of preserving improvements. Tele-PR is an alternative to conventional modalities due to similar improvements. Although PR is effective, it is an under-utilized resource. The awareness of PR should be increased in patients and among health professionals.

Part of the book: COPD