Long COVID refers to the persistent symptoms experienced by individuals post-initial COVID-19 infection. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in addressing long COVID symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain, and shortness of breath, improving overall physical function and quality of life.
What is prolonged COVID and what are some of its symptoms?
Prolonged COVID, also known as long COVID, refers to the condition where individuals experience persistent symptoms following the initial COVID-19 infection. These symptoms can vary widely in duration, extending from weeks to months, and may include fatigue, muscle pain, sleep disturbances, “brain fog” where individuals may experience difficulties in concentration, memory, and executive function, as well as specific symptoms affecting respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, neurological, and dermatological systems. Additionally, individuals with long COVID may experience symptoms that come and go, worsen with exertion, and are not necessarily associated with the initial severity of the COVID-19 infection. The condition can affect various organs and systems in the body, making it a complex and multifaceted health challenge.
What are the positive implications of physiotherapy as a therapeutic intervention for long COVID patients?
Physiotherapy that can help patients with long COVID includes various interventions targeting respiratory function, particularly involving physical activity. For example, inspiratory muscle training (IMT) exercises have shown positive results in improving post-COVID recovery, especially in studies lasting at least 6 weeks. Additionally, tailored exercise programs designed by physiotherapists aimed at improving muscle strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness can address common symptoms such as fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and shortness of breath in long COVID patients. Other activities may include manual therapy to improve joint mobility and reduce pain associated with musculoskeletal discomfort in long COVID patients. Overall, incorporating physical activity into daily routines as part of holistic interventions involving social support, motivation, and attitudes can have positive effects on post-COVID recovery and improve quality of life for individuals with long COVID.
Physiotherapists also provide education on pacing strategies and energy conservation to help individuals manage their symptoms effectively. While the duration of physiotherapy benefits may vary for each individual, engaging in consistent physical activity integrated into daily habits can lead to long-term improvements in managing symptoms and enhancing well-being for long COVID patients.
At Pro Fusion Rehab, you can regain control over long-term COVID symptoms with our physiotherapy sessions. Our expert team creates personalized plans using special exercises to tackle fatigue and muscle weakness. Experience a journey to restored mobility and strength for a healthier future. Choose our physiotherapy clinic in Milton and Pickering for a confident stride towards optimal health.
Reference: Sánchez-García, J. C., Reinoso-Cobo, A., Piqueras-Sola, B., Cortés-Martín, J., Menor-Rodríguez, M. J., Alabau-Dasi, R., & Rodríguez-Blanque, R. (2023). Long COVID and Physical Therapy: A Systematic Review. Diseases (Basel, Switzerland), 11(4), 163. https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases11040163