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- Physiotherapy after pulmonary hypertension
Physiotherapy after pulmonary hypertension
Patients with confirmed or suspected pulmonary hypertension are referred to a physiotherapist in Heart Hospital with a doctor’s referral, both in wards and at the polyclinic.
Exercise is an important part of the self-care of a pulmonary hypertension patient. Physiotherapy is already needed at the inpatient stage so that the patient dares to start getting mobile, knows how to achieve the maximum benefit from exercise and gets motivated for life-long mobility. In low-impact endurance training, heart rate should remain below 120/min.
The physiotherapist performs 6-minute walking tests to evaluate the patient’s performance and provides the patient with exercise and lifestyle guidance. If necessary, the physiotherapist will prepare for each patient an individual training programme of respiratory, posture or muscular exercises. Patients usually see their physiotherapist and doctor every 3 to 6 months, in certain cases more often. The performance assessment performed by a physiotherapist is an important part of monitoring the patient’s welfare and administering their medication.
If necessary, the patient is provided further physiotherapy (by occupational health, health centre, regional hospital, or private clinic), or other support to maintain their mobility and functional capacity.