Cardiac Rehabilitation

Returning to your regular routine can be frustrating after a heart attack or heart surgery. Many people feel frightened, unsure of what they can safely do after a major cardiac event. That's where Stony Brook Medicine can help. We offer you a physically and emotionally supportive place where you can recover at your own pace under the supervision of an experienced and compassionate team of specialists.

Cardiac Rehabilitation at Stony Brook Medicine is a coordinated exercise and education program designed to help you improve your physical endurance and strength following a cardiac illness or surgery -- and to set you on the course for a healthier lifestyle. Our program consists of two phases that last between 8 and 12 weeks in which you work with a physician, a registered nurse, and a physical therapist. During the program, you will have a comprehensive evaluation and receive a customized exercise plan. You will also receive education on nutrition, stress management, and risk factor identification -- all to help you lead a healthy lifestyle even after you complete the program.

We tailor the exercise program to your personal interests, needs, and abilities, and the program occurs in a monitored environment so that the staff is constantly aware of the status of your heart and how well it is tolerating the exercise in which you are engaged.

Our Cardiac Rehabilitation center features a full range of exercise equipment, including treadmills, exercise bicycles, and rowing machines. We offer therapeutic modalities and have emergency equipment on hand. Locker rooms and shower facilities are also available.

Our specialists will work closely with you and your family members to make your transition back to daily life as smooth as possible. In the process, you will increase your self-confidence, improve your physical fitness, and prepare for a healthier lifestyle.

Setting and reaching goals is an important part of a Cardiac Rehabilitation program. Engaging you and keeping you interested will help you complete the program and take all that you learn with you into your daily life. The goals of our program include:

  • Physical reconditioning
  • Endurance
  • Strength
  • Restoration of function
  • Stress reduction
  • Patient and family education

The benefits of a cardiac rehabilitation are many, some of which include:

  • Strengthening and conditioning of your heart and lungs
  • Controlling weight and improving cholesterol levels, including HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol
  • Understanding your medications, the signs and symptoms of heart disease, and when to seek medical attention
  • Increasing self confidence
  • Laying the groundwork for the development of a healthier lifestyle
  • Reducing your symptoms and chances of experiencing another cardiac event
  • Earlier return to work and activities of daily living
  • Developing healthy habits and stress reduction skills, as well as relaxation techniques
  • Providing emotional support for you and your family

Our Cardiac Rehabilitation program, located in 33 Research Way in Setauket, is offered through our Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy.

A written referral from your physician and a recent stress test are required to begin cardiac rehabilitation. Insurance coverage may vary; contact your insurance company to find out if you are covered.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (631) 444-4240.

Stony Brook Medicine also offers a free cardiac education program for you, your family and your friends. This six-week heart disease awareness program is aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of heart health and important information about factors that influence heart disease. Led by Stony Brook Medicine health care professionals, the program features topics that are important to the well being of patients. There is no charge for the education program, but registration is required. To register, call (631) 444-4000.

The Stony Brook Difference

The Cardiac Rehabilitation program at Stony Brook Medicine, one of the few programs of its kind in the area, is comprehensive and multidisciplinary. The program is part of a care process that is with you through your continuum of care. From the time you have your surgery, or experience a traumatic heart event, until you return to work, Stony Brook Medicine can take care of you. Our Cardiac Rehabilitation program fits into the continuum as part of your recovery, and the benefits you receive will last a lifetime.