ABSTRACT
Reduced exercise capacity, skeletal muscle dysfunction, and a physically inactive lifestyle are linked with symptoms of fatigue and dyspnea in people suffering from chronic lung disease. Numerous such extrapulmonary manifestations have been identified as treatable aspects of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). PR is an extensive personalized non-pharmaceutical intervention, encompassing, but not limited to, exercise training, respiratory therapy, and education. The content and goals of a PR-program are based on a comprehensive patient assessment at the time of rehabilitation admission, with personalized therapies provided by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. This article provides an overview of PR including possible indications, therapy contents (e. g. exercise training, respiratory therapy), and evidence (COPD, interstitial lung disease, COVID-19). Finally, options for pulmonary rehabilitation maintenance services in Germany are presented.
