Readaptation respiratoire. [Respiratory rehabilitation]

Pulmonary rehabilitation is directed at all patients with severe chronic respiratory insufficiency of any origin. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease clearly represent the majority. In a pulmonary rehabilitation programme, the patient must gain a better understanding of his disease and of the goals of the treatment. He benefits from permanent teaching on methods of independent self-treatment and follows a regular programme of exercise training and nutritional support aimed at increasing effort capacity. The ultimate goal of the programme is to send the patient home with improved quality of life and a higher degree of independence