Fall 1998 ~ Newsletter
Cystic Fibrosis and Lung Transplants
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Exercise Is Recommended!
By Jane (Burton) Keith, PT/OT
You've heard it over and over before. . .but we are going to talk about it again - EXERCISE! You have heard how it is beneficial to you in general but we would like to emphasize its importance before a transplant. There are several benefits that we would like to discuss.First of all, most of the centers require that you have a regular exercise routine to be considered as a transplant candidate. Also, most centers require that you move to the local area a few months before anticipated transplant time so that you will be, of course, within two hours of the center, but also to have you come in four times a week to exercise for 50 - 60 minutes. (And you thought we were tough?!?!)Now you may be thinking: "If I'm getting new lungs then why is it important to condition the ones I have?" Well, remember that your pulmonary system doesn't involve just your lungs, but also your heart, blood vessels, and all the cells in your body that require oxygen -- that would be all of them! As your lung function decreases, the rest of your body is affected as well. Keeping your pulmonary system in the best shape possible will keep the process of supplying oxygen to your body efficient and effective.Also, remember that when you are exercising you are strengthening your muscles including your heart and the muscles in your rib cage that aid with breathing! A major surgery has quite an impact on the body and muscles. The body and muscles can become quite de-conditioned in a matter of days. Getting your muscles in tip-top shape before such a major surgery is necessary to help you through surgery and to recover faster afterwards.
It is important to be under the guidance of a physical therapist with your exercise program so he or she can monitor your oxygen needs. And you know that we will be happy to assist you in any way we can.Come see us in PT/OT - Clinic 1 or call us at (205) 939-9645.