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Writer's pictureKylie Siu

Understanding Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation: Your Guide to Improving Heart and Lung Health

Updated: Oct 3

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation chest physiotherapy Singapore

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, or chest physiotherapy, is a specialised exercise programme run by physiotherapists for anyone managing heart or lung conditions. For individuals already dealing with cardiovascular or respiratory issues, the question often becomes: What now? How can you prevent further complications, and what steps can you take to regain control of your health? Chest physiotherapy may just hold the key…


comprehensive approach to managing heart and lung conditions

Why is Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Essential for Heart and Lung Health

In Singapore, recurring heart attacks and chronic lung conditions are one of the top medical conditions, which can cause a myriad of health problems down the road. In addition to conventional medical therapy, many people are now looking for other ways to manage and enhance their recovery for secondary prevention and longevity. Cardiopulmonary physiotherapy offers a comprehensive approach by combining monitored exercise programs with education on lifestyle changes. It is designed to improve your heart and lung function, enhancing overall quality of life.


For those who've experienced a heart attack or are battling chronic lung diseases like COPD, bronchiectasis or even symptoms of long-covid, chest physiotherapy provides the tools needed for long-term management. It’s not just about recovering from an event—it's about preventing the next one.


how to improve heart and lung health

The Risk of Recurring Heart Attacks and Chronic Lung Conditions

Once you've had a heart attack, the risk of having another one increases significantly. Studies suggest that around 20% of heart attack survivors experience a second event within five years. Meanwhile, chronic lung conditions like COPD and bronchiectasis can lead to frequent flare-ups and declining lung function over time. Long-Covid is a new condition which is still being studied, where symptoms of prolonged fatigue and shortness of breath can still be experienced long after the recovery of the condition. These statistics highlight the importance of taking proactive steps to manage these conditions.


How Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Reduces These Risks

The core benefit of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each client will be assessed on their individual goals, then tailored to each individuals’ health status, focusing on what will best help you move better, feel better, and thrive. For patients post-heart attack, this means exercises that help improve cardiovascular fitness and reduce the likelihood of future heart attacks, thereby improving healthspan. For those with chronic lung conditions, the focus is on increasing lung capacity and making daily activities easier to manage.

In addition to physical exercise, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation provides education on how to modify your lifestyle.


This includes guidance on quitting smoking, managing weight, and making dietary changes that can contribute to long-term health. The combination of exercise and lifestyle education helps in reducing risk factors for heart attacks and mitigating the symptoms of lung disease.


When Should You Start Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation?

Timing is crucial when it comes to starting cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. For heart attack patients, rehab typically begins in the hospital, as soon as your condition is stable. It continues after discharge, ideally within 8 to 12 weeks, to ensure the best results. For chronic lung conditions, it's never too early or too late to begin. The sooner you start, the quicker you can experience improvements in your breathing and endurance.


top chest physiotherapy cardiopulmonary rehabilitation clinic in singapore

What to Expect in a Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Program

A cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program is structured to support your specific health needs. It typically includes:

  • Assessment of the individual goals and formulate a rehab timeline

  • Customised treatment plans that provide a holistic approach to recovery and long-term health management.

  • Monitored exercise programs designed to improve cardiovascular and lung strength.

  • Education on managing risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking.


Every session is designed to be progressive, meaning exercises will get slightly more challenging as your heart and lungs grow stronger. The goal is to gradually increase your physical activity levels in a way that's safe and sustainable for you.


Thrive Healthcare's Approach to Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

At Thrive Healthcare, the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program is designed with a focus on long-term health management. With a team of experienced physiotherapists, the program offers personalised care, catering to patients recovering from heart attacks, managing chronic lung conditions, and empowering them beyond function to performance.


The team member takes a holistic approach, ensuring that each client receives not only a customised exercise programme, but also the education and emotional support needed to make lasting lifestyle changes. This integrated approach has helped many clients regain their independence and reduce the risk of future heart or lung complications.


how to strengthen heart and lungs condition

Who Can Benefit from Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation?

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is not limited to those who have experienced a heart attack. People with conditions like COPD, bronchiectasis, heart failure, long-Covid, or those recovering from lung surgeries can all benefit from this type of rehab. If you frequently experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or have difficulty engaging in physical activity due to heart or lung issues, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation may be a crucial step in regaining your quality of life.


copd bronchiectasis heart failure heart attacks

How to Know When You Need Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

If you're unsure whether cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is right for you, consider these signs:

  • You've had a heart attack or another heart-related surgery.

  • You suffer from frequent shortness of breath or fatigue due to lung conditions.

  • You're finding it increasingly difficult to engage in physical activities.

  • You want to take preventative steps to avoid future heart or lung complications.


Conclusion: Take Control of Your Health

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation offers more than just a path to recovery—it provides a foundation for long-term heart and lung health. With the right combination of exercise, education, and lifestyle modifications, you can significantly reduce your risk of recurring heart attacks or further complications from chronic lung diseases.


If you're ready to take the next step in managing your heart or lung health, Thrive Healthcare is here to support you on your journey. Our expert physiotherapists are dedicated to helping you achieve better health outcomes through personalised, compassionate care.


Ready to begin? Contact Thrive Healthcare today to learn more about how our cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program can help you live a healthier, more active life. Email us at hello@thrivehealthcare.com.sg for more enquiries.

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