Should Physical Therapy Be Part of Your COVID-19 Recovery?

(Last Updated On: April 04, 2021)

COVID-19 has been related to a litany of symptoms, with severities that change greatly from one person to another. Even for few of those who experienced mild symptoms, it can take a some time to be yourself again. In cases of severe symptoms, a patient might may take longer to fully recover. 

COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs but also can have heart and muscle/joint complications.  People that have been affected directly by the coronavirus or who have limited physical activity due to self-isolation may have similar issues – increased fatigue, weakness, difficulty breathing, decreased endurance, and reduced balance. 

Why might in-person physical therapy be necessary?

Physical therapy can help those with decreased strength begin to move more, gradually building up their stamina. Physical therapy for those recovering from COVID-19 aims to:

  • restore proper muscle function 
  • reduce chance of mental health conditions that are a result of limited mobility
  • allow patients to resume their normal routines

Weakness and deconditioning are among the common issues people face after COVID-19. A physiotherapist (PT) can calculate a target pulse then monitor the patient’s pulse to make sure that they’re exercising within their tolerance. Doctors also mentioned pain and stiffness as common lingering effects – symptoms that can be monitored and improved in the clinic.

How to know if physical therapy is right for you?

Anytime a patient feels they’re not ‘back to normal’ within fortnight after their symptoms subside, they likely may benefit from the help of a physiotherapist. Expert assistance can assist you return to your prior level of function as quickly and safely as possible.

How to know your clinic is safe?

When selecting a physiotherapist, confirm to ask about the clinic’s safety protocols regarding COVID-19 and protecting against the spread of the virus. Make sure that the clinic has the subsequent safety standards in place:

  • Patients and staff are screened for COVID-19 daily including a temperature check.
  • Patients and clinicians are required to wear masks at all times.
  • All surfaces are sanitized between touches.
  • Treatment areas are placed six feet apart.

Some larger clinics can also have extended hours to permit for staggered staffing, reducing the quantity of individuals within the clinic space at any given time.

Evidence has shown that manual therapy followed by corrective exercise improves overall lung function.  As physical therapists, they can identify at what point mechanics may be impaired and create a program to optimize movement for the whole body. By closely monitoring vital signs (heart rate, oxygen levels, etc.), they can help patients safely progress toward their goals. They teach strategies to minimize stress on the heart and lung systems and the rest of the body. The ultimate goal is to return patients to their prior levels of function, improving their quality of life by getting them back to normal.

It is important to check with your doctor before starting physical therapy. To book an appointment visit www.surite.in or call on 6292262922.

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