What is Interstitial Lung Disease?

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) refers to a group of lung disorders that affect the interstitium, the tissue that surrounds and supports the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. These disorders cause inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) of the interstitium, which can lead to a decrease in the amount of oxygen that reaches the bloodstream.

ILD can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to environmental toxins, autoimmune diseases, infections, and genetic factors. The symptoms of ILD can vary depending on the type of disease and the severity of the fibrosis, but common signs include:

  • Shortness of breath, especially with exertion
  • Dry cough
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Chest discomfort

ILD can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging studies (such as chest X-rays and CT scans), and pulmonary function tests. Treatment for ILD typically involves a combination of medications, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, as well as oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation to improve lung function and quality of life. In severe cases, lung transplantation may be necessary.

Interstitial Lung Disease

The Importance of Exercise in Interstitial Lung Disease

Exercise can play an important role in managing interstitial lung disease (ILD). While it may be challenging for people with ILD to engage in physical activity due to their breathing difficulties, exercise can help to improve lung function, enhance overall fitness, and boost quality of life.

Here are some of the benefits of exercise for people with ILD:

  1. Improved lung function: Exercise can help to improve lung function by increasing oxygen uptake, reducing inflammation, and promoting better ventilation and gas exchange in the lungs.

  2. Increased endurance: Regular exercise can help to build endurance, making it easier for people with ILD to perform daily activities without becoming breathless.

  3. Enhanced muscle strength: Strength training exercises can help to build muscle strength, which can improve overall physical function and reduce fatigue.

  4. Improved mental health: Exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, reducing stress and anxiety and improving mood and self-esteem.

  5. Better disease management: Regular exercise can help to improve overall disease management by reducing the frequency and severity of ILD flare-ups, and improving the effectiveness of other treatment modalities.

Live & Breathe Better with Interstitial Lung Disease

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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