What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It is caused by a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which leads to the production of a thick, sticky mucus that can clog the airways, pancreas, and other organs.

The symptoms of CF can vary depending on the severity of the disease, but common signs include:

  • Persistent cough with thick, sticky mucus
  • Frequent lung infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis
  • Wheezing and shortness of breath
  • Poor growth and weight gain despite a good appetite
  • Difficulty with digestion and bowel movements
  • Salty-tasting skin

 

CF is usually diagnosed in early childhood through newborn screening or genetic testing, although some people may not be diagnosed until later in life. Treatment for CF typically involves a combination of medications, such as antibiotics, bronchodilators, and mucolytics, as well as therapies to help clear the airways and improve lung function. Nutritional support and enzyme replacement therapy may also be necessary to manage digestive symptoms. While there is currently no cure for CF, with proper treatment, many people with CF are able to lead active and productive lives.

Cystic Fibrosis

The Importance of Exercise in Cystic Fibrosis

Exercise can have many benefits for people with cystic fibrosis (CF), including:

  1. Improved lung function: Exercise can help to increase lung capacity, strengthen the muscles used in breathing, and clear mucus from the airways, which can lead to improved lung function and better breathing control.

  2. Reduced symptoms: Regular exercise can help to reduce symptoms of CF, such as coughing and shortness of breath, by improving overall fitness and reducing inflammation in the airways.

  3. Better weight management: Exercise can help to improve appetite and increase muscle mass, which can help people with CF to maintain a healthy weight and prevent malnutrition.

  4. Improved mental health: Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, which can have a positive impact on mental health and help to manage CF-related anxiety and depression.

  5. Increased overall health: Regular exercise can improve overall health and reduce the risk of other health conditions, such as osteoporosis and diabetes, which can be common in people with CF.

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Live & Breathe Better with Cystic Fibrosis

The Lung Workshop is 8 weeks of interactive group exercise training supervised by a rehabilitation specialist. The program is tailored to your needs and follows evidence-based exercise training which aims to improve respiratory symptoms and physical function.  

Initial Assessment

Schedule a consultation to meet your trainer, discuss goals and cost, address questions, and perform a quick physical assessment.

Exercise Classes

Attend two 60-minute supervised group exercise classes every week. The sessions are online via Zoom, so you can exercise at home and not worry about traveling to a gym or centre.

Support

Receive practitioner support every step of the way. Our goal is to help you manage your condition, regain independence, and build confidence. 

FAQ

The Lung Workshop is 8 weeks of virtual group exercise supervised by a rehabilitation specialist. The program follows evidence-based exercise training which aims to reduce breathlessness, improve lung function, and enhance quality of life.

The cost is $250 for the 8-week workshop. You will also have access to the Free Online Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program during and following the Lung Workshop.

All insurance plans are slightly different. If you are unsure as to which paramedical services are covered by your insurance plan, please review your policy document or contact your insurance provider. When speaking with your provider, be sure to ask specifically about coverage for supervised exercise training with a rehabilitation specialist.

We understand that not everyone has access to a fully equipped gym or expensive exercise equipment. That’s why we’ve designed our program to be adaptable and budget-friendly. All you need is a resistance band and two light weights / dumbbells. You can get creative and use household items (e.g., soup cans, water bottles, bags of rice) if you do not have dumbbells.

The program lasts 8 weeks, which includes a complimentary consultation, 2 exercise sessions every week, and practitioner checkins.

This is a virtual program offered online via Zoom.  

No, you do not need a signed referral from a doctor to participate in our program. Our mission is to make pulmonary rehabilitation easily accessible for everyone. We encourage all clients to discuss pulmonary rehabilitation with their physician to ensure the program is right for them.

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Pulmonary rehabilitation helps ease respiratory symptoms, improve physical and psychological well-being, and increase disease management. Please discuss your decision to begin online pulmonary rehabilitation with a doctor or health care provider.

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