What is cardiac rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised exercise, nutrition and lifestyle program designed to help patients with heart conditions and limit the physiological and psychological effects of cardiac illness.

One of the first steps a patient can take to reduce the risk of another cardiac event is to begin a cardiac rehabilitation program. Our team of specialists will develop an individualized plan that combines the expertise of cardiologists, registered cardiac nurses, exercise physiologists, registered dietitians and pharmacists.

Cardiac rehabilitation: Who is a candidate?

Patients should start a cardiac rehabilitation program if they currently have or have experienced one of the following:

• Bypass surgery
• Chronic chest pain
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Heart transplant
• Stent placement
• Valve repair or replacement

Cardiac rehabilitation: What to expect

Cardiac rehabilitation programs focus on three areas to help patients live a more heart-healthy lifestyle. Our program includes:

• Exercise counseling and training. Staying active is one of the best ways to reduce the chances of future heart problems. Patients learn how to exercise safely and effectively while improving their conditioning and stamina.
• Managing risk factors. Patients learn how to lower blood pressure and cholesterol as well as improve nutrition and blood sugars. In addition, our specialists teach techniques to assist in maintaining a healthy weight and smoking cessation.
• Stress management. Reducing stress can improve overall heart health. Social support interaction and stress reduction techniques reduce fatigue, depression and anxiety, which improves quality of life. Our supervised outpatient program is typically three times a week for about three months. After completing the outpatient care, individuals may continue in the program’s fitness maintenance plan.

Cardiac rehabilitation: Why choose UF Health?

The UF Health Cardiovascular Center in Jacksonville offers more treatment options than other facilities, which we believe results in the best possible outcomes for our cardiovascular patients. Because our surgeons and cardiologists collaborate using a team-based approach to assess each patient, we are able to create a customized, effective treatment plan for each person based on individual needs.