Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program for Pulmonary Disease

Did you know: More than 16 million Americans have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Millions more have it and don’t know it.

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Ivy Rehab / Therapy Services / Physical Therapy / Pulmonary Disease

What is pulmonary disease?

Pulmonary disease (also called a respiratory disease or lung disorder) can impact the lungs and the respiratory system. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, lung cancer, pneumonia, and pulmonary fibrosis are included. For any individuals challenged by chronic pulmonary disease, the Breathe Free program can help. Pulmonary rehabilitation can help reduce symptoms and support better health and quality of life.

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How Can the Breathe Free Program Help With Pulmonary Rehabilitation?

This program helps improve pacing and energy conservation to support daily activity and reduce shortness of breath through the following methods:

A combination of breathing exercises and functional activities, with a focus on pacing and energy conservation. Education may include the use of a device and a structured pulmonary rehabilitation program.
An individualized approach to breathing and activity for those with chronic pulmonary disease, with clinical guidance to maintain fitness and support overall health.

Beyond Physical Therapy Treatment for Pulmonary Disease

If you have recently been diagnosed with Pulmonary Disease, or are worried it has been undiagnosed, contact your nearest Ivy Rehab Network clinic for an evaluation. Our friendly and skilled therapists offer a variety of therapy options to help patients manage the disease and continue their favorite activities. Support for lung disease can include daily strategies and guidance on weight and fitness to improve health.

1Nhlbi.nih.gov. (2020). COPD Learn More Breathe Better® | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). [online] Available at: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/education-and-awareness/copd-learn-more-breathe-better [Accessed 13 Feb. 2020].

FAQs

Can pulmonary rehabilitation reduce symptoms like shortness of breath?

Yes. Pulmonary rehabilitation can help reduce symptoms, including shortness of breath, by improving breathing techniques, fitness, and tolerance for daily activities.

Do respiratory therapists participate in pulmonary rehabilitation?

In some settings, respiratory therapists may be part of the care team and support education and clinical procedures as needed.

How does pulmonary rehabilitation improve quality of life?

By helping you maintain daily routines, build fitness safely, and develop practical strategies for pacing and energy conservation, pulmonary rehabilitation can support better health and quality of life.

What is included in a pulmonary rehabilitation program?

A pulmonary rehabilitation program may include education, breathing exercises, a structured exercise program, and functional activities focused on daily pacing and energy conservation. Some plans may also include guidance on using a device.

What is pulmonary rehabilitation, and who can benefit?

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a clinical approach that helps people with lung disease improve health and quality of life. Many people benefit if they experience shortness of breath or have chronic pulmonary disease.

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After two foot/ankle surgeries in 2023 and countless pt sessions I assumed that living with pain was going to be my norm. But then I found Park Sports. After several months of sessions with Megan I am now able to do things I never thought possible again. Huge shout outs to Tayden, Ellis, Tyra and Amelia for being part of my care team. This place is so great I’m going to go back to fix some other parts of my aching body. Thanks, Park Sports!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to leave such thoughtful feedback – we’re grateful! – The team at Park Sports Physical Therapy – Brooklyn – Williamsburg

First visit for lower back pain went well. I believe AK's hands are magical and he dug deep into my 65 year old beat up back and gave me relief. I'm looking foward to my next visit because I'm tired of being in pain… And no he didn't pay me for this review…

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Naperville

Best physical therapy experience i've ever had, with the worst injury.I've ever had. Professional, knowledgeable, fostering a great atmosphere with unwavering, upbeat support. Thank you Carly, Jan, AJ, Michelle, and Maria.

Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – Westfield – East Broad St

From the first day I knew it was going to be a great experience. It all started at the front desk. Ebony was wonderful! She ensured that I could get the best possible times that worked for me and was very kind when I needed accommodations. If you needed a laugh it started at the front desk door.

Aaron was my specific PT. Day 1 I knew he cared and by the last day I was trying to find a way to keep coming back. Attended to your specific needs and made you feel comfortable about how you could get there. Always had a conversation starter to make you feel at home. Would ask how he could help make the process better for you. The 1 on 1 time was great where his focus was specifically on you. Now my Shoulder is 10X better!

The rest of the staff was also very kind, friendly and eager to help in any way they could! Josh and Sarah were the rockstars that kept the boat afloat when it was time to train. Even the other PT John greeted you like you were his own patient and very respectful.

I’ve been to PT before but by far this was the best experience with the best results!

Thanks again!

Response from the owner:It’s great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy, Westfield – East Broad Street

Incredibly competent team offers hope! With their guidance and encouragement I am back to running! Grateful and thrilled. Thank you Taryn, Amanda, Kristy n and interns.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab, Kokomo!

My experience with Dr. Brian Guardado has been exceptional! He is so knowledgeable and understanding. He help me get stronger and teach me which exercises and stretches are best to get rid of my back pain, neck pain and even migraines and headaches. I am very grateful for all the team including Crystal. She help me navigate all of my appointments and always makes me feel welcome. They know all of the patients names and the environment is very pleasant. Thank you so much for helping many people feel so much better!

Response from the owner:Your kind words brighten our day – thank you for sharing! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Indian Trail

This is the best of all the facilities I have entrusted with my care. From the front office staff to each therapist handling my care, it has been a positive experience. I always recommend them to my friends. I’ve been going here for many yrs and and feel like family when in their care.

Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Island Park

The best staff in the Hampton Roads area by far. From Grace handling things at the front desk to Patrick and team making sure everyone that walks in reaches their goal while having a little fun. Hopefully I don’t have to come back to see them, but if I ever was to need physical therapy moving forward this is the team I want to help with all my needs.

Response from the owner:We're so happy to hear this feedback – thank you for choosing us! The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Norfolk – Granby

I am incredibly satisfied with the care and attention I received at PTW. I worked primarily with Samantha for my month and a half long treatment for lower back pain. I am an avid weightlifter and I wanted a PT who was familiar with weightlifters and could get me back in the gym. Sam was able to help eliminate my back pain and learn new techniques to manage nerve pain all with the end goal in mind of getting me back into weightlifting form. Sam had a great plan in place in order for me to meet my goals and was able to address any questions or concerns I had during my journey.
The CoVid-19 precautions that PTW had in place were outstanding! Everyone must wear masks at all times and the equipment is meticulously cleaned after every patient. Commonly used machines like the treadmill will have signs on them that say sanitized to let people know it has been cleaned before their use. PTW and the therapists are going above and beyond to make their patients feel comfortable during these CoVid-19 times. The number of patients in the facility will vary depending on the time of day but everyone has more than 6 feet between them. Most of the time it was just myself and Sam in the facility.
I would definitely recommend PTW to anyone looking for a physical therapist. The care I received was incredible and I know if anything ever comes up I can go back to have my needs met.

My experience has been unbelievably wonderful. These people are very professional and caring and are doing an excellent job of bringing me back from a very bad injury. I would highly recommend them!

Response from the owner:"Our Mission is Your Recovery!"
Kathleen, thanks for taking the time to leave a review and placing your trust in Main Line Hand Therapy to help you meet your goals.

Grateful to Ivy and especially to the therapist Alex. I am dealing with vertigo, balance and related vestibular issues. Medical Doctors have not been able to provide meaningful relief. I went through two attempts at vestibular therapy with little progress.

Alex took a proactive approach to my issues. He set a goal "Bullet Proof Vestibular System." His accumulated knowledge, his thoroughness and professionalism are making an enormous difference in my life.

I have not experienced a sever attack in at least 90 days. I feel much safer in my daily activities. I completed the course of therapy with a list of exercises designed by Alex, personalized for me, to maintain and improve my progress.

Ivy and Alex in particular have my highest recommendation.

Response from the owner:We’re so thankful for your kind words and positive review! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Somerset

They are the best! The best service ever. I had to come last year for my knee and Terry was great. This year 2025, I had a muscle strain near my deltoid area. Connor was excellent. There were times when he was unable to tend to me and other staff members picked up. Sometimes we take our muscles/bones and other body parts for granted. I am thankful for this extremely knowledgeable staff. Have a great rest of your year Ivy Rehab on Walnut St.!

Response from the owner:We're thrilled you had such a positive experience, thank you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Philadelphia – Center City

I absolutely love this Ivy Rehab location! I have two kids who attend OT and Speech here and they are amazing! I would highly recommend this location! The therapist are great at their jobs! Very patient and kind! And the receptionist are awesome with scheduling! Nothing but great experiences for us!!!

Response from the owner:We’re so thankful for your kind words and positive review! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids – Bensalem

Ivy & the staff has been nothing but phenomenal! My son loves going & has made so much progress! We’re so thankful for everyone at ivy for exceptional care we receive!

Response from the owner:It’s great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids, Canton

This place is great! Bobby addressed the variety of issues I had and got me running and exercising pain-free about a month after my first visit. I also learned so much about how to keep myself healthy and strong to avoid injury in the future.
Amazing, patient, and knowledgeable staff. Can't recommend enough!

Response from the owner:That's wonderful to hear – thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Hoboken

My 7 year old just completed his OT with Macy. I didn’t have much expectations starting his therapy but after just a few short months, he has far excelled in multiple areas. His therapist was incredibly helpful and supportive. We are sad but happy to leave.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words; we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids, Norfolk – Granby

I came in with severe hip pain and discomfort. I was barely walking! I have seen real improvement over the past couple of months. Chris is innovative in his treatment and always encouraging! I am grateful for his help! Ski season is coming soon… I know he will get me ready!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the fantastic rating, we're so grateful! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Caledonia

David helped me through frozen shoulder and planters fascitis and now knee pain. He is great. Makes me work hard, yet gentle, funny and effective. I am torn as to letting others know since this might make him less available for my appointments! The results are always great!
AND Julie the receptionist + is very good!

Response from the owner:We're so happy to hear this feedback – thank you for choosing us! The team at Back in Action Physical Therapy – Apex

Adam and the entire team helped me recover from my shoulder replacement surgery.
From the heat treatments, the massages and the various stretching and weight bearing exercises I have returned to almost normal functioning. I am extremely pleased.

Response from the owner:Your kind words brighten our day – thank you for sharing! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Conshohocken

AK and Yaya are the best! They understand my pain issues and take the time to explain what is happening and what I can do daily to keep my legs working! And best of all they helped accommodate my crazy schedule so I can get my sessions in.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Naperville

I have been to a lot of different rehab clinics in my time. This is the BEST rehab clinic I have ever been to! The therapist explains why and how they will do your rehab. It is very clean and the atmosphere is positive. The therapist are the most knowledgeable and best I have ever had work on me. Yes there is pain when you do the exercises but no pain no gain. I look forward to going and getting better.
They have a receptionist that is very nice and makes you feel welcome. She schedules your appointments and does her best to get you in at your convenience.

As you can probably tell I cannot say enough good about Ivy Rehab.