Energy Conservation Techniques in Pulmonary Rehabilitation

This article was written by Tara Shedor, MA.

As we recognize Pulmonary Rehab Week - our annual opportunity to shine a united spotlight on the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation for our lung health community - we realize the idea of attending pulmonary rehab may also come with questions. If you've ever asked yourself, "How could I possibly find the energy to participate in pulmonary rehab?" You are not alone!

Dr. Farzeen Wadia helps provide some strategies that may be useful for assisting in the addition of a new physical activity such as pulmonary rehabilitation.

Dr. Farzeen Wadia is a Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapist from Pune, India and a passionate advocate and Captain for the COPD Foundation. She has extensive clinical experience working with people with COPD and other chronic respiratory conditions and is committed to empowering patients through education and support.

What energy conservation is in pulmonary rehabilitation?

Energy conservation in pulmonary rehabilitation means finding ways to do daily activities using less energy. This helps people with lung problems avoid getting too tired while performing activities.

Why is energy conservation important?

With lung disease, the body doesn't get as much oxygen as it needs. This means there is less energy for daily activities, which can cause tiredness, shortness of breath, and sometimes anxiety. Saving energy helps people manage these symptoms and stay more independent.

What are some strategies for conserving energy?

Remember and practice the "4 Ps":

• Planning:

  Start by planning your tasks to avoid extra trips. Make sure you have all your supplies and equipment ready before you begin. Plan to alternate between heavy and light tasks and spread activities throughout the week so you don't have to do too much on any one day.

• Pacing:

  Give yourself plenty of time to finish activities. Move at a slow, steady pace to avoid rushing. Spread your tasks out over the day and take breaks before you feel tired.

• Prioritizing:

  Focus on your most important tasks first. Decide what needs to be done today and what tasks can wait. When you have several things to do, start with the most important thing so it gets finished.

• Positioning & Posture:

  Keep good posture to help your breathing. Sit whenever possible. Sitting saves energy and helps you focus on your breathing activities. Keep heavy objects close to your body when you are lifting or carrying them.

How does proper breathing technique fit into energy conservation?

Proper breathing helps save energy by using oxygen better and keeping the body calm. Techniques like belly breathing and breathing out through pursed lips can help you feel less tired during daily activities.

Match your breathing to your movements. People with lung disease use more energy just to breathe, so it's important to breathe in before you start a movement and breathe out as you do the hardest part. This makes activities easier and saves energy.

How can I apply these techniques when doing basic self-care activities?

Here are a few ways that you can conserve energy during activities that you do every day:

• Eating:

  Sit up straight and avoid slouching or leaning forward. Rest your elbows on the table and keep dishes close so you don't have to reach far.

• Getting Dressed and Ready for the Day:

  Sit down whenever possible while getting dressed and ready for the day. Wear loose, easy-to-put-on clothes to save energy. Rest your elbows on the sink while grooming. Use an electric toothbrush and razor to reduce effort.

  Keep the bathroom well-ventilated by using an exhaust fan or opening a window. Bathe or shower when you have enough energy, and use supplemental oxygen if your doctor has ordered it. Use a long-handled sponge and towel for washing your back, and remember to breathe steadily. After bathing, wrap yourself in a large towel to dry off. Get dressed after resting if needed.

• Walking and Stairs:

  Move slowly when walking and don't rush. Keep an upright posture to help your lungs work better. Having good posture will help you get more oxygen with each breath! Take small steps, especially on hills or stairs, because they use less energy than long strides. Breathe out as you take each step. Pace yourself when going up or down steps. If you get short of breath after using the stairs, stop and rest safely by leaning against a wall or sitting down. Use pursed lip breathing to recover.

What is the most important thing to remember about energy conservation?

Pay attention to how your body feels. Take breaks before you feel tired and try to schedule regular rest times. Make sure to rest often.

You don't have to do fewer activities. Instead, notice what makes you feel out of breath and think about ways to make those tasks easier. If you practice these techniques often, they will become a natural part of your daily routine.