Cardiac rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation is an important part of the recovery process for those who have had a heart attack, chest pain, coronary artery bypass surgery, valve replacement, angioplasty or stents.

The goal of Buffalo Hospital’s cardiac rehab program is to increase patients’ physical activity and function while promoting a heart-healthy lifestyle to prevent future complications and learning ways to cope with lifestyle changes and stress. Patients work with specially trained cardiac nurses in our sunny gym.

Two-phase program

Cardiac rehab begins with a comprehensive assessment to determine risk factors, then we develop a personal plan, which may include a one or two-phase exercise program.

• Phase 1 begins in a hospital following a heart attack, heart surgery, angioplasty, or stable angina. Cardiac rehab emphasizes a gradual increase in the amount and type of exercise.
• Phase 2 generally lasts four to 12 weeks after you leave the hospital. Patients are monitored at all times and programs are individually tailored. The program combines medical supervision, EKG heart monitoring, cardiac risk factor modification, progressive exercise, dietary and stress management counseling.