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Home / Medical Services / Pulmonology and Critical Care / Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonology and Critical Care
Pulmonology and Critical Care

Chattanooga LifeStyle Center
Erlanger Rehab & Wellness
325 Market St., 3rd Floor
Chattanooga, TN 37402
423-778-9400 

Helping in people with restrictive lung impairments lead more active lives

For more than 20 years, the Erlanger’s pulmonary rehabilitation program has been helping people with restrictive lung impairments lead more active lives – with improved strength, well-being and confidence.

Who is eligible?

Our certified program is designed for people of all ages – from children to seniors – who are suffering from restrictive or obstructive lung disease, including:

  • COPD - chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases like emphysema, chronic bronchitis and asthma
  • Interstitial lung diseases
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Pulmonary fibrosis
  • Bronchiectasis

Elements of Our Program?

Our program is tailored to meet each person’s individual needs for physical reconditioning, education, and emotional support. This includes:

  • Exercise – We prescribe an exercise program for all participants and tailor it to meet your individual needs. The goal of pulmonary rehabilitation is to improve your endurance and helping you control your breathing.
  • Education – Through individual and group education sessions, we teach you how to manage your condition so you will stay healthy and active long after you complete the course. Topics include breathing techniques, medications, nutrition, relaxation, oxygen, travel, and more.
  • Support – Our program gives you the opportunity to meet people who have many of the same experiences, questions and feelings that you do.

Benefits of Our Program

Studies show that people with chronic lung disease who actively participate in a pulmonary rehabilitation program experience a decrease in pulmonary symptoms, hospital and emergency room visits and lead a more active lifestyle. Benefits can also include:

  • Control of breathing and relief of breathing problems
  • More energy with increased strength and endurance
  • A better understanding of the physiological demands of COPD and other lung impairments
  • Increased daily activity at home and in the community
  • Better self-management and management of the disease process
  • Reduced anxiety and improved self-reliance
  • Reduced need for hospitalization and emergency room visits

How Often Does the Program Meet?

The program meets 2-3 times a week for 36 sessions. After completion of the regular sessions, many participants continue with our maintenance program, to help sustain the progress they have made.

Our Team

The Erlanger Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is directed by a team of experienced professionals including a pulmonologist, nurse, respiratory therapist, exercise physiologist, and dietitian. Our team will work closely with you and your physician to design a program which meets your special medical needs.

Insurance

Your participation in pulmonary rehabilitation may be paid by your private insurance plan. If insurance is other than a private plan, the staff will be able to assist you with any questions you may have.

How to Enroll

To enroll in the program, you will need a physician’s referral. Any patient with COPD or other lung impairment may be considered for the program and early referral is encouraged. If you feel you could benefit from the program, ask your physician for more information.

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