The Benefits of
Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Breathe Better

People with COPD who participate in pulmonary rehabilitation experience less breathlessness.

More Good Days

People with COPD who participate in pulmonary rehabilitation experience fewer hospital days and greater autonomy.

Be More Active

People with COPD who participate in pulmonary rehabilitation have increased energy and exercise tolerance, and are able to participate in more activities.

Live Happier

People with COPD who participate in pulmonary rehabilitation have reduced anxiety and improved quality of life.



Given its huge and impactful benefits, the following professional medical societies recommend pulmonary rehabilitation as an effective treatment for people with COPD:

  • American College of Physicians[1]
  • American College of Chest Physicians [2]
  • Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease[3]
  • American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society[4]
  • American Association of Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Rehabilitation[2]
Citations
  • [1] Amir Qaseem, Timothy J. Wilt, Steven E. Weinberger, Nicola A. Hanania, Gerard Criner, Thys van der Molen, et al. Diagnosis and Management of Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Clinical Practice Guideline Update from the American College of Physicians, American College of Chest Physicians, American Thoracic Society, and European Respiratory Society. Ann Intern Med. 2011;155:179–191. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-155-3-201108020-00008
  • [2] Ries AL, Bauldoff GS, Carlin BW, Casaburi R, Emery CF, Mahler DA, Make B, Rochester CL, Zuwallack R, Herrerias C. Pulmonary rehabilitation: joint ACCP/AACVPR evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Chest. 2007;131(5 Suppl):4S–42. doi: 10.1378/chest.06-2418.
  • [3] Vestbo J, Hurd SS, Agustí AG, Jones PW, Vogelmeier C, Anzueto A, Barnes PJ, Fabbri LM, Martinez FJ, Nishimura M, et al. Global strategy for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: GOLD executive summary. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2013;187:347–365.
  • [4] Nici L, Donner C, Wouters E, Zuwallack R; ATS/ERS Pulmonary Rehabilitation Writing Committee. American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society statement on pulmonary rehabilitation. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2006;173:1390–1413