Pulmonary rehabilitation is a multidisciplinary approach to treating individuals with chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Although the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation are well established, there are still several myths and misconceptions surrounding the process.
Ms. Devi Sundar, founder of Tele-therapies summarizes five myths of pulmonary rehabilitation.
Myth 1- Pulmonary Rehabilitation is merely an exercise program
Myth 2- It is only prescribed for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease
Myth 3- It is only for those above 60 years or older
Myth 4-Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a 6-week program
Myth 5- Pulmonary Rehabilitation needs a prescription
Watch “Breaking the Myths of Pulmonary Rehabilitation”:
Ms. Devi Sundar negate all these myths associated with Pulmonary Rehabilitation which are not always true and are often stated without context. She states a real “Pulmonary Rehabilitation” is a triple drug therapy that includes supervised exercise, mental health counselling , education on inhaler and self-management, and ongoing support for maintenance of rehab benefits. It is not there to reverse your lungs disease but promises improvement in breathing problems with conscious mental self-regulation and thereby improves your quality of life.
This article will discuss value of pulmonary rehabilitation and explains why the myths are untrue. By understanding the facts, people with chronic respiratory diseases can make informed decisions and get the most out of their pulmonary rehabilitation program.
Table of Contents
Pulmonary rehabilitation is an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach to restoring optimal physical and psychosocial well-being for individuals with chronic lung disease. It is typically composed of a combination of exercise, education, and support to improve daily functioning, quality of life, and disease self-management.
The primary goal of pulmonary rehabilitation is to reduce the symptoms and disability associated with chronic lung disease and improve overall physical, mental, and social functioning. Pulmonary rehabilitation improves aerobic capacity, muscular strength, and endurance, as well as reduces breathlessness, fatigue, and depression. It also helps to reduce healthcare utilization, hospitalizations, and mortality.
People believe in myths of pulmonary rehabilitation because they are often based on anecdotal evidence that has been passed down through generations. People may also believe in myths because they are often reinforced by media and other sources. Additionally, many people may feel that there is a lack of scientific evidence to support the claims of pulmonary rehabilitation and may be swayed by personal stories or experiences.
Ms. Devi Sundar believes that “holistic patient care should be a therapist’s priority.” At Tele-Therapies, Unique approach is, a weekly customized rehab plan is made for individuals depending on the weakness of lung muscles and mental health counselling to improve their quality of life. The individuals are educated on how to deal with the symptoms, shortness of breath, use of respiratory medicines, use of home medical equipment for better breathing, make good nutritional choices, coping with mental health disorders and so on.
Some common conditions that could benefit from Pulmonary Rehabilitation include Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Interstitial lung disease, Lung cancer, lung cancer surgery, asthma, pulmonary hypertension, cystic fibrosis, and lung volume reduction surgery after or before lung transplantation.
The primary goals of Pulmonary Rehabilitation are to help with shortness of breath which helps in daily household and outdoor activities. Individuals who went through Pulmonary Rehabilitation under the supervision of Ms. Devi Sundar felt benefits like fewer cough symptoms, better ability to walk and exercise daily, less anxiousness, less tiredness, and a lesser number of visits to the hospital.
Ms. Devi Sundar states people of any age can go through Pulmonary Rehabilitation without any formal prescription from a GP, Nurse, Consultant, or Allied Healthcare Professional. Generally, it is termed a 6-week program because of the lack of ample resources, but research confirms a longer programme of 8 weeks or 22 weeks to appreciate the value of rehabilitation with longer retention of benefits. Ms. Devi Sundar states that a commitment from individuals enrolled in the programme determines the depth of benefits. It is very safe to go to a healthcare professional with expertise in Pulmonary Rehabilitation.
The official website of Tele-Therapies provides all the necessary information an individual may need before going through Pulmonary Rehabilitation sessions.
The myths of pulmonary rehabilitation are largely based on misunderstandings of its purpose and goals. While there may be some risks associated with pulmonary rehabilitation, the benefits far outweigh them. Pulmonary rehabilitation can help improve the quality of life, reduce symptoms and reduce the risk of complications from COPD. It is important to speak or consider with a healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation before beginning.
About Tele-Therapies:
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Ms. Devi Sundar, M.Sc., M.S, FHEA
Ms. Devi Sundar is the founder Tele-Therapies. She is a passionate a Clinician & Educator in the specialist sector of Physiotherapy, Psychotherapy & Counselling, with over 20 years of successful experience in clinical research, clinical practice, and teaching. At Tele-Therapies, she offers pulmonary rehabilitation and mental health services to people with lung disease and mental health disorder for an improved life experience.
Devi has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of acute or chronic respiratory conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns. With Devi’s calm guidance, individuals and families are encouraged to discuss their wants, needs, and fears, which in turn helps to destigmatize the process. She offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for. She works collaboratively with others involved in your health, including primary care, specialists and therapists.
Devi has undergone training in Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing ,Emotional freedom therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance & Commitment therapy, incorporating many of the skills acquired in daily practice, including active listening, reflection, and meeting clients “where they are at.” She conducts a thorough evaluation and uses targeted treatments that are evidence based, holistic, and aimed toward your overall wellness.
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