Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Patients learn to breathe better with the help of the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at Torrance Memorial Medical Center. Whether a patient has been on supplemental oxygen for awhile or has recently been diagnosed with lung disease, this outpatient program can provide:

• Training to help patients manage their pulmonary health
• A commitment to helping patients feel their best and live life more fully
• An experienced and caring team to guide the patient
• A personalized home program to keep you active

You are a good candidate for pulmonary rehabilitation if you are living with:

• Asthma
• Chronic bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis
• Occupational or environmental lung disease
• Restrictive lung disease
• The need for therapy due to a lung transplant, lung reduction and/or lung resection surgery

The program is convenient and accessible. Patients may bring a family member or friend to the program session and at no additional cost. The comprehensive, eight-week program:

• Meets for two hours, twice a week in the Pulmonary Rehabilitation department on the fifth floor of the West Tower. Parking is available in the adjacent, West Parking Structure.
• Includes exercise sessions, lectures and videotape demonstrations.

The many ways that patients improve their breathing is through:

• Breathing re-training
• Airway clearance techniques
• General muscle strengthening
• Physical conditioning
• Respiratory muscle conditioning
• Using oxygen and aerosol equipment
• Activities of daily living
• Relaxation training
• Improved independence and self-reliance
• Energy conservation and work simplification training
• Nutrition and medication training
• Management of breathing while traveling

Torrance Memorial's Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program takes a personal approach to better breathing. To make sure you receive the best possible care, you will be treated by a team of pulmonary experts, including:

• Your attending physician
• An experienced pulmonary rehabilitation therapist (respiratory care practitioner)
• Physical and occupational therapists
• Pharmacist
• Dietitian

Working together, this team will design a personalized program for your education and therapy. You will:

• Enjoy a personalized program based on your exercise tolerance, lab tests and goals you wish to achieve
• Receive continual assessment of your progress
• Leave with a follow-up program designed to help you maintain your progress at home
• Be able to use our exercise equipment (for a small fee) after you complete the program.

For your continued improvement, the program offers a free monthly support group, Lungs for Life featuring expert speakers, up-to-date respiratory care information, activities and trips.

To participate in the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program you must have a referral from your personal physician. Medicare and most insurance plans are accepted. Call (310) 784-4885 to make an appointment.