After recovering from open heart surgery in March 2024, Shelby resident Nyla Larson was encouraged by her physicians to join Logan Health – Shelby’s cardiac rehabilitation program, which combines exercise, lifestyle changes and education to help people recover from heart issues and prevent future complications.
“When considering cardio therapy, it was daunting. I was scared that my heart would not work well, and I was very weak,” said Larson. “After my first session I had hope that this would work. My heart became stronger every week and I became stronger.”
Two weeks after surgery, Larson developed gout in her left hand, and in her right hand a week later. This type of arthritis caused pain in her joints, limiting mobility in her arms and hands. This didn’t stop her from receiving a tailored cardiac rehab plan that involved controlled arm movements and more lower body exercises, such as inclined walking and the strength training NuStep machine.
“If you’ve experienced a cardiovascular event, you can rest assured that the Logan Health – Shelby Cardiac Rehabilitation Team will get you back on your feet and help you stay well,” said Bridget Blevins, Cardiopulmonary Services Manager.
In addition to Bridget, the rehab team at Logan Health – Shelby (LHS) includes a medical director, physician, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, dietician and pharmacist.
Cardiac Rehabilitation Week, February 9-15, initiated by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR), coincides with both Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month to draw greater national attention to heart health. This year’s theme, “And the Beat Goes On” honors the patients, families, and health care professionals who are dedicated to giving cardiac rehabilitation patients a new start.
“This therapy, although “physical”, is just as important for mental health, regaining faith in your body, and being strong and healthy again,” said Larson. “I will always be grateful for the time in therapy. My therapists were beyond kind, supportive and thorough. Bridget not only helped me but gave me tips to help me keep going. Shanae Peters (LHS Respiratory Therapist) was also so sweet when she filled in.”
“We are proud of our staff and all of our patients for the work they do,” said Blevins. “Our cardiac rehab patients have a higher completion rate, lower post-rehab blood pressures, and higher patient satisfaction scores compared to the state and nationwide program averages.”
If you, or someone you know, would benefit from cardiac rehab, talk to your primary care physician and ask for a referral. You can also contact the LHS Rehabilitation Department for questions or help with a referral by calling (406) 434-3249.