Comprehensive care and innovative therapies tailored to improve your quality of life.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation at
The Respire Institute
Pulmonary Rehabilitation at The Respire Institute
What is Pulmonary Rehabilitation?
Whether you're managing COPD, asthma, or other lung diseases, our program offers personalized care to strengthen your lungs and enhance your daily activities.
At The Respire Institute, our Pulmonary Rehabilitation program is designed to help individuals with chronic respiratory conditions regain control over their breathing and improve their overall quality of life.
It is not physical therapy
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Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center
Measures how well your lungs work, including airflow, lung volume, and oxygen exchange. These tests help diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions to guide effective treatment.
Evaluates your endurance and oxygen levels during physical activity. This simple test helps assess functional capacity and monitor progress in managing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
A program designed to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. It combines exercise, education, and support to help patients manage their health effectively.
6 minute-walk test
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT)
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Services and Support
At The Respire Institute, we understand that living with a lung condition means adapting to a “new normal.” Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way, helping you breathe easier and live life to the fullest.
Preparing for you Pulmonary Rehabilitation Assessment/Session
- Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing and shoes – you will be doing exercises.
- Arrive at least 10-15 minutes prior to your appointment for check in and be prepared for a possible copay (determined by your insurance) – you will need to have a valid ID and insurance card.
- Take your daily medications as normal.
- Do eat a LIGHT meal before your appointment.
- Bring any supplemental oxygen with you to your appointment.
- Bring any walking aids that are needed for your mobility.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a structured program designed to help individuals with lung conditions regain strength, confidence, and control over their breathing. Our program at The Respire Institute Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center combines exercise and education, equipping patients and their caregivers with the tools needed to manage the impact of chronic lung disease.
Through supervised exercise training, patients improve their endurance and overall fitness, while breathing techniques and airway clearance strategies help ease shortness of breath. Our team also provides personalized medication education, ensuring proper inhaler use and adherence to prescribed treatments.
How to Prepare for your Test
You will get specific instructions if you need to stop using bronchodilators or inhaler medications.
Your cooperation while performing the test is crucial in order to get accurate results. A poor seal around the mouthpiece of the spirometer can give poor test results that can’t be interpreted. Please follow ALL instructions given to you by your doctor.
Lung function tests measure:
- How much air you can blow out of your lungs and how fast you can do it.
- How well your lungs deliver oxygen to your blood.
- How strong your breathing muscles are.
Lung function tests are painless and rarely cause side effects. If you take breathing medicines, your doctor may ask you to stop them for a short time before spirometry, a lung volume measurement, or a lung diffusion capacity test.
The breathing tests most often used are:
- Spirometry (spi-ROM–eh-tre): This test measures how much air you can breathe in and out. It also measures how fast you can blow air out.
- Lung Volume Measurement: This test, in addition to spirometry, measures how much air you have left in your lungs after you breathe out completely.
- Lung Diffusing Capacity: This test measures how well oxygen passes from your lungs into your bloodstream.
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Pulmonary Function Testing
Pulmonary Function Testing is performed in order to detect the presence or absence of lung disease, such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema; determine the cause of shortness of breath; and measure effects of occupational and environmental exposure.
It can also be performed to assess the effect of medication, measure progress in disease treatment, evaluate pre and post surgery and evaluate disability or impairment.
6-Minute Walk Test
The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) is a simple yet effective evaluation of how the heart, lungs, and oxygen levels respond to exercise. During this test, patients walk for six minutes within a designated area while a technician closely monitors their heart rate, oxygen saturation, and level of exertion after each lap.
If oxygen levels drop significantly, supplemental oxygen may be administered via a nasal cannula to ensure patient safety.
The results of this test help determine:
- The need for supplemental oxygen
- The severity of shortness of breath
- The body’s response to exertion and activity
- A patient’s potential risk for surgery
Preparing for the 6-minute walk test:
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes – ensure that you are able to comfortably walk in your attire.
- Take any medications as normal.
- Do not exercise prior to your appointment.
- Do not drink any beverage that contains caffeine prior to the test.
- Do eat a LIGHT meal before the test.
- Please bring your walking aids (walker, cane, etc.) to the test if it is needed.
- Please wear your oxygen pre- and post-test – oxygen saturation will initially be measured on room air (without O2).
The 6MWT is a valuable tool in assessing lung and heart function, guiding treatment decisions, and improving quality of life for individuals with respiratory conditions.
Meet the Team
Tanza Diggs
MA
Rehab Clinical Medical Assistant
Berlinda Morado
RRT, RCP
Practice Manager
Fatima Garcia
MA
PFT Tech
Adrianna Grantham
NRCMA
Rehab Tech
Isabell Garcia
CMA
Rehab Tech
Stephanie Santiago
Front Desk Specialist
Nathalie Sainz
RT, NRCMA
Rehab Clinic Lead
Karess Rodriguez
NRCMA
Rehab Tech
Mir M. Alikhan, MD
Pulmonary and Critical
Care Medicine
Kelsie Rayfield
MHA, RRT, RCP
Director, Pulmonary
Rehabilitation Center
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if Pulmonary Rehab is right for me?
If you find yourself feeling short of breath during everyday activities—like walking, climbing stairs, or even getting dressed—pulmonary rehab could be a great option for you. Pay attention to any changes in your breathing and energy levels, and make note of any difficulties you’re experiencing.
The next step is to talk to your doctor. Share your symptoms and any challenges you’re facing. If pulmonary rehab is a good fit for you, your doctor will provide a referral to our program, where we’ll work on improving your lung function, strength, and overall well-being. Pulmonary rehab is designed to help you breathe easier and live better—take the first step today!
What conditions are treated in a Pulmonary Rehab program?
Pulmonary rehabilitation is designed to help people with a variety of lung conditions. Some of the most common conditions treated in pulmonary rehab include:
**This is not a complete list—if you have a lung condition that makes breathing difficult, pulmonary rehab may still be an option for you. Talk to your doctor to see if it could help improve your breathing and quality of life.
Do I need a referral from my doctor to participate in Pulmonary Rehab?
Yes, a referral is needed to participate in pulmonary rehabilitation.
How do I get started with Pulmonary Rehab at The Respire Institute?
The process depends on whether you're an existing patient or new to our practice:
Once we receive your referral, our team will guide you through the next steps, making the process as seamless as possible. We’re here to help you breathe easier and feel stronger!
Will insurance cover my sessions, or will I have to pay out of pocket?
Insurance coverage for pulmonary rehab varies by plan. Many insurance providers cover some or all sessions, but you may have a copay, coinsurance, or out-of-pocket costs for services not included in your plan.
Before starting rehab, we recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your benefits. Our team can also assist in verifying your coverage and answering any questions to help you plan ahead—so you can focus on your progress without unexpected costs.
If you find yourself feeling short of breath during everyday activities—like walking, climbing stairs, or even getting dressed—pulmonary rehab could be a great option for you. Pay attention to any changes in your breathing and energy levels, and make note of any difficulties you’re experiencing.
The next step is to talk to your doctor. Share your symptoms and any challenges you’re facing. If pulmonary rehab is a good fit for you, your doctor will provide a referral to our program, where we’ll work on improving your lung function, strength, and overall well-being. Pulmonary rehab is designed to help you breathe easier and live better—take the first step today!
What conditions are treated in a Pulmonary Rehab program?
Pulmonary rehabilitation is designed to help people with a variety of lung conditions. Some of the most common conditions treated in pulmonary rehab include:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Asthma
- Emphysema
- Bronchiectasis
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Pulmonary Hypertension
**This is not a complete list—if you have a lung condition that makes breathing difficult, pulmonary rehab may still be an option for you. Talk to your doctor to see if it could help improve your breathing and quality of life.
Do I need a referral from my doctor to participate in Pulmonary Rehab?
Yes, a referral is needed to participate in pulmonary rehabilitation.
How do I get started with Pulmonary Rehab at The Respire Institute?
The process depends on whether you're an existing patient or new to our practice:
- Established Patients: If you're already seeing one of our pulmonary specialists (MDs or NPs), just ask them about starting pulmonary rehab. They can initiate the referral directly.
- New Patients: If you’re not currently under the care of one of our specialists, your primary care provider or referring physician will need to send a referral to our office.
Once we receive your referral, our team will guide you through the next steps, making the process as seamless as possible. We’re here to help you breathe easier and feel stronger!
Will insurance cover my sessions, or will I have to pay out of pocket?
Insurance coverage for pulmonary rehab varies by plan. Many insurance providers cover some or all sessions, but you may have a copay, coinsurance, or out-of-pocket costs for services not included in your plan.
Before starting rehab, we recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your benefits. Our team can also assist in verifying your coverage and answering any questions to help you plan ahead—so you can focus on your progress without unexpected costs.
What to Expect
Getting Started
Progress, Support & Logistics
Symptoms & Physical Challenges
Progress, Support & Logistics
Symptoms & Physical Challenges
What will my first session be like? Will I need to bring anything?
Your first pulmonary rehab session includes an initial assessment to evaluate your fitness level and breathing abilities, allowing us to customize your program. Before your visit, complete the necessary forms by downloading the Patient Packet and fill out prior to arrival—bringing these with you helps streamline your check-in.
If you use a walking aid, bring it along, as rehab may involve moving between stations. Our team will guide you every step of the way. We look forward to helping you breathe easier and feel stronger!
What kind of clothes and shoes should I wear to Pulmonary Rehab?
Pulmonary Rehab is a workout. Please wear clothes and shoes that are comfortable and allow you to move around easily.
What can I expect during a typical Pulmonary Rehab session?
Will I be hooked up to any machines during my sessions?
During your rehab sessions, we keep track of your vitals to ensure your safety. A pulse oximeter and blood pressure cuff will be used before and after each session to check your oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. If we need to check your oxygen levels during exercise, your technician will use a pulse oximeter as needed. If supplemental oxygen is required, it will be provided via nasal cannula from either an oxygen concentrator or a tank. Otherwise, nothing will be attached to you during your rehab session, allowing you to move freely and comfortably while exercising. Our team is here to monitor and support you every step of the way!
How long does the Pulmonary Rehab program last?
The program length is dependent on your level of coverage with your insurance.
What types of exercises are included in the program?
The following exercises are included in our pulmonary rehab program:
Your first pulmonary rehab session includes an initial assessment to evaluate your fitness level and breathing abilities, allowing us to customize your program. Before your visit, complete the necessary forms by downloading the Patient Packet and fill out prior to arrival—bringing these with you helps streamline your check-in.
If you use a walking aid, bring it along, as rehab may involve moving between stations. Our team will guide you every step of the way. We look forward to helping you breathe easier and feel stronger!
What kind of clothes and shoes should I wear to Pulmonary Rehab?
Pulmonary Rehab is a workout. Please wear clothes and shoes that are comfortable and allow you to move around easily.
What can I expect during a typical Pulmonary Rehab session?
- When you arrive for your pulmonary rehab session, you’ll be greeted by your rehab technician, who will check your temperature before you head back to the gym. We will also monitor your vital signs—including heart rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure—both before and after your session to ensure your safety.
- You won’t be alone in your session! Other patients will be working alongside you, each with their own tailored program and guided by our rehab team. To help keep the energy up and make the session enjoyable, we’ll have music playing in the background for motivation.
- Our goal is to provide a supportive and encouraging environment to help you build strength, improve breathing, and feel your best. We’re excited to be part of your journey!
Will I be hooked up to any machines during my sessions?
During your rehab sessions, we keep track of your vitals to ensure your safety. A pulse oximeter and blood pressure cuff will be used before and after each session to check your oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. If we need to check your oxygen levels during exercise, your technician will use a pulse oximeter as needed. If supplemental oxygen is required, it will be provided via nasal cannula from either an oxygen concentrator or a tank. Otherwise, nothing will be attached to you during your rehab session, allowing you to move freely and comfortably while exercising. Our team is here to monitor and support you every step of the way!
How long does the Pulmonary Rehab program last?
The program length is dependent on your level of coverage with your insurance.
What types of exercises are included in the program?
The following exercises are included in our pulmonary rehab program:
- Arm and Leg Pedals
- Free weights – 1 – 10 lbs.
- Ankle weights – 0.5-7.5lbs and 10lbs
- Treadmills
- Leg hurdles
- Resistance bands
What to Expect
Getting Started
I get tired easily—will I be able to keep up?
Yes! Pulmonary rehab is tailored to your abilities, allowing you to progress at your own pace. Your rehab technician will be with you every step, offering support and guidance. As you improve, they’ll help you safely build endurance. No matter where you start, our goal is to help you breathe easier and feel stronger.
What if I start coughing or feel short of breath while exercising?
It’s completely normal to experience some coughing or shortness of breath during pulmonary rehab, and our trained technicians are here to help. If this happens, they will guide you through techniques to help you recover so you can safely continue your session. If you ever feel unusually unwell, unable to recover, or if your vitals are outside normal ranges, our Director who is a trained respiratory therapist, and/or one of our on-staff providers will be called to assess how you’re feeling and determine the best next steps. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to support you every step of the way!
Are there any risks associated with Pulmonary Rehab?
Yes! Pulmonary rehab is generally very safe, and our team is here to support you throughout each session. Our trained rehab technicians will closely monitor your progress and set a pace that is safe and appropriate for you. As with any form of exercise, there are some risks, including falls, mild injuries, or an increased heart rate. That’s why your technician will work one-on-one with you, ensuring you move safely and confidently. If you ever feel abnormal in any way—whether it’s dizziness, discomfort, or anything else—please let your technician know immediately. Our team, including on-staff providers, will assess how you’re feeling and determine the next steps to keep you safe. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are here to make sure you feel supported, safe, and empowered throughout your rehab journey!
Can Pulmonary Rehab help reduce my need for oxygen therapy and stay out of the hospital?
Yes! Regular pulmonary rehab, combined with medication therapy, can improve lung function, reduce oxygen dependence, and lower hospital admissions. Our program strengthens your lungs through exercise and teaches breathing techniques to improve oxygenation and daily endurance.
Can I still do Pulmonary Rehab if I use oxygen at home?
Absolutely. Pulmonary Rehab could improve your lung function and potentially decrease your need for supplemental oxygen.
How will Pulmonary Rehab improve my daily life and lung function?
Pulmonary rehab is like physical therapy for your lungs. It combines exercise and breathing techniques to boost lung function, endurance, and confidence in daily activities. Over time, you’ll learn to move more easily, breathe more efficiently, and feel stronger—one session at a time.
Yes! Pulmonary rehab is tailored to your abilities, allowing you to progress at your own pace. Your rehab technician will be with you every step, offering support and guidance. As you improve, they’ll help you safely build endurance. No matter where you start, our goal is to help you breathe easier and feel stronger.
What if I start coughing or feel short of breath while exercising?
It’s completely normal to experience some coughing or shortness of breath during pulmonary rehab, and our trained technicians are here to help. If this happens, they will guide you through techniques to help you recover so you can safely continue your session. If you ever feel unusually unwell, unable to recover, or if your vitals are outside normal ranges, our Director who is a trained respiratory therapist, and/or one of our on-staff providers will be called to assess how you’re feeling and determine the best next steps. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to support you every step of the way!
Are there any risks associated with Pulmonary Rehab?
Yes! Pulmonary rehab is generally very safe, and our team is here to support you throughout each session. Our trained rehab technicians will closely monitor your progress and set a pace that is safe and appropriate for you. As with any form of exercise, there are some risks, including falls, mild injuries, or an increased heart rate. That’s why your technician will work one-on-one with you, ensuring you move safely and confidently. If you ever feel abnormal in any way—whether it’s dizziness, discomfort, or anything else—please let your technician know immediately. Our team, including on-staff providers, will assess how you’re feeling and determine the next steps to keep you safe. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are here to make sure you feel supported, safe, and empowered throughout your rehab journey!
Can Pulmonary Rehab help reduce my need for oxygen therapy and stay out of the hospital?
Yes! Regular pulmonary rehab, combined with medication therapy, can improve lung function, reduce oxygen dependence, and lower hospital admissions. Our program strengthens your lungs through exercise and teaches breathing techniques to improve oxygenation and daily endurance.
Can I still do Pulmonary Rehab if I use oxygen at home?
Absolutely. Pulmonary Rehab could improve your lung function and potentially decrease your need for supplemental oxygen.
How will Pulmonary Rehab improve my daily life and lung function?
Pulmonary rehab is like physical therapy for your lungs. It combines exercise and breathing techniques to boost lung function, endurance, and confidence in daily activities. Over time, you’ll learn to move more easily, breathe more efficiently, and feel stronger—one session at a time.
Progress, Support & Logistics
Symptoms & Physical Challenges
What to Expect
Getting Started
CONTINUING SUPPORT AT HOME
How long will it take before I start feeling better?
Every patient’s journey is unique, and progress looks different for everyone. Some people start feeling better sooner, while others experience gradual improvements over time. The most important thing to remember is that all progress is good progress—no matter how big or small! There’s no set timeframe for when you’ll notice changes, but with consistent effort and commitment, you’ll be taking important steps toward better breathing, improved stamina, and a healthier life. Trust the process, and know that our team is here to support you every step of the way.
I live far away—can I do these exercises at home?
To receive a personalized home exercise program, an initial assessment at our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center is required. This evaluation helps us determine the most effective exercises tailored to your specific needs and condition
Can I continue Pulmonary Rehab exercises after my program ends?
Absolutely. Continuing your breathing exercises and home routine will help maintain and build on your progress.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT AND LOGISTICS
Will my referring doctor be updated on my progress?
Yes. Pulmonologists overseeing your care will receive progress reports. If you were referred by an external physician, updates will be sent via fax or a hard copy for you to bring to your doctor.
Can a family member or caregiver attend my sessions with me?
Yes! One family member or caregiver may join your session for support. Due to space limitations, we allow one guest per patient. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you with the best care possible.
How long will it take before I start feeling better?
Every patient’s journey is unique, and progress looks different for everyone. Some people start feeling better sooner, while others experience gradual improvements over time. The most important thing to remember is that all progress is good progress—no matter how big or small! There’s no set timeframe for when you’ll notice changes, but with consistent effort and commitment, you’ll be taking important steps toward better breathing, improved stamina, and a healthier life. Trust the process, and know that our team is here to support you every step of the way.
I live far away—can I do these exercises at home?
To receive a personalized home exercise program, an initial assessment at our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center is required. This evaluation helps us determine the most effective exercises tailored to your specific needs and condition
Can I continue Pulmonary Rehab exercises after my program ends?
Absolutely. Continuing your breathing exercises and home routine will help maintain and build on your progress.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT AND LOGISTICS
Will my referring doctor be updated on my progress?
Yes. Pulmonologists overseeing your care will receive progress reports. If you were referred by an external physician, updates will be sent via fax or a hard copy for you to bring to your doctor.
Can a family member or caregiver attend my sessions with me?
Yes! One family member or caregiver may join your session for support. Due to space limitations, we allow one guest per patient. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you with the best care possible.
