Our Program
One evidence-based plan for POTS, orthostatic hypotension and other forms of orthostatic intolerance, designed by our cardiac physiotherapist and tailored to you.
OUR VISION
Experts in Cardiovascular Dysautonomia
We help restore cardiovascular regulation, physical capacity and confidence through an evidence-based, individualized program of cardiovascular and strength training, designed by our cardiac physiotherapist.
Our Story
Shield's cardiac rehab began as a pilot project in POTS management with select patients, in connection with Dr. Guzman. We formally established the program in August 2023 and have since grown to treat the full range of orthostatic intolerance conditions.
Living with these conditions can feel unpredictable. You're not alone, and you're not stuck: our team guides you every step of the way.
HOW WE WORK WITH YOU
Five Steps to Feeling Better
01 Discover
We listen to your story, symptoms, triggers and goals.
02 Assess
We test how your heart rate and blood pressure respond to lying, sitting and standing.
03 Develop
We build your personalized plan: heart-rate targets, exercise, hydration and nutrition.
04 Execute
Supervised, heart-rate monitored sessions, with your doctor kept in the loop.
05 Evolve
We progress you from lying to upright and build a home program for life.
Our Promise: You'll Leave With a Plan
Every patient leaves their first visit with a clear, personalized plan of action. No guesswork. You'll know exactly what to do next.
What’s Included
Heart-Rate Guided Exercise
Progressive cardio and strength training, paced by your symptoms and data.
Nutrition & Hydration
Fluid, salt and meal strategies to support blood volume and steady energy.
Education & Support
Take-home guides, flare strategies and a team that keeps your physician in the loop.
YOUR TREATMENT PLAN
Five Phases. About 6–7 Months.
01 · Foundation Setting
1–3 weeks · A 1-hour assessment covering your history, symptom surveys and orthostatic vitals, plus home strategies and take-home guides. We find your starting point.
02 · Capacity Building
8–12 weeks · Recumbent bike training takes standing out of the equation while we build you up to about 40 minutes at moderate intensity.
03 · Postural Training
8–10 weeks · You progress to an upright bike, then an Arc Trainer or elliptical, adding strength work in more upright positions.
04 · Functional Training
4–8 weeks · We turn your new capacity into your goals: stairs, carrying, lifting, running or sport.
05 · Self-Management
Ongoing · Cardio 3x and strength 2x a week on your own, with optional check-ins every 1–3 months.
One plan for every condition. POTS, OH, VVS and IST all follow the same framework, adjusted to you. VVS and IST usually need a shorter program.
