Cardiac rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation aims to help you recover from a cardiovascular event — such as a heart attack or heart failure — or other debilitating heart condition. This recovery process usually involves physical therapy, exercise and education to rebuild and maintain your heart strength.
Heart rehabilitation in Alexandria, Louisiana
We aim to provide education and support so you can manage your heart health.
At Rapides Regional Medical Center, we offer cardiac rehabilitation services to help strengthen your heart and prevent long-term health issues. Upon evaluation, we create a personalized care plan based on your physical, mental and nutritional needs.
Expert advice, available 24/7
Free health-related information is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Free health-related information is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Conditions we treat
If you have chronic chest pain, use a stent or are recovering from a cardiac procedure, you may benefit from rehabilitation. We help treat various heart-related conditions, including:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
Our cardiac rehabilitation program
Your participation in our multi-week program can help lay the groundwork for a healthier lifestyle.
Heart rehabilitation process
You will typically spend six to 12 weeks in cardiac rehabilitation, attending up to three sessions per week. The length of your program may depend upon your goals, the progress of your recovery or your physician’s recommendation. Weekly sessions take place in the Rapides Health and Lifestyle Center, located near I-49 on our hospital's campus.
During your activity sessions, we use an electrocardiograph (ECG) telemetry unit to monitor how you and your heart are reacting and adapting. You will also learn how to take your pulse, determine your exercise intensity and exercise at a level which gives you access to as many benefits as possible.
Benefits of heart therapy
By participating in our rehabilitation program, you may potentially experience multiple benefits, including:
- Better understanding of medications, signs of heart disease and when to seek medical attention
- Development of stress management and relaxation techniques
- Emotional support for you and your family
- Faster return to work and daily activities
- Greater control of weight and total cholesterol levels
- Increase in self-confidence
- Reduction in symptoms and chances of experiencing another cardiac event
- Stronger and better conditioned heart and lungs