If you’ve been diagnosed with heart disease your heart specialist likely recommends cardiac rehabilitation as part of your recovery program. Cardiac rehab is an individualized program that strengthens your heart. At the same time, the program teaches you lifestyle changes that significantly improve your chances of avoiding future heart problems.
Everything you need to restore your heart health and remain healthy is available. Under one roof, you’ll find a wide range of specialists with the expertise you need for your diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. Your team may consist of medical specialists who cooperate to strengthen your heart. Your specific team may include:
- Your primary care doctor
- A physical therapist
- A cardiologist
- A nutritionist
- Nurse practitioners and educators
- Even a vein specialist
What to Expect from Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehab is a medically supervised program that includes education, physical activity and support. You work with a group of specialists to develop a recovery program that’s right for you. Cardiac rehab programs include:
• Exercise. Your treatment team works with you to improve your fitness level through physical activity. You’re guided toward low-impact activities such as cycling, walking or rowing. You may also work on strength training using resistance bands or hand weights. Members of your medical team ensure that your activities are safe for you. They monitor your progress and add more intensive training when you feel ready.
• Education on heart healthy living. You receive instructions on how to make lifestyle changes such as creating a heart-healthy diet, increasing your physical activity, reducing stress and quitting smoking. If you have other conditions, such as diabetes or high cholesterol, your health care team offers guidance. Referrals to other specialists keep you within the same practice and at the same location.
• Support. Your treatment team aims to provide whatever assistance you need. Your support may include counseling and medication from a psychiatrist for depression if you’re having difficulty coping with your condition. You may be directed to a support group that shares your concerns. They teach you ways of dealing with stress, such as meditation and relaxation techniques. Regular follow-up visits hold you accountable for maintaining your new lifestyle until even after your rehab program is complete.