Physiotherapy Rehabilitation for COVID-19 Patients: Its Role and Importance

The COVID-19 pandemic changed our world and has affected every individual to some extent. This virus can cause a number of complications and functional impairments after recovery, and for many people around the world, the virus caused prolonged hospitalization, which can lead to cardiovascular, muscle and cognitive changes and depression and anxiety as well. The severity of these effects will vary from one patient to another, but if you were affected severely by this virus, it’s important that you consider physiotherapy because this treatment will help improve your function and will allow you to perform your regular daily activities.

A physiotherapist will complete an examination of the patient to ensure they are stable so that they can participate in the sessions, and based on their findings, they will decide on the treatment that should be given. They will create the appropriate treatment plan and will proceed accordingly based on the patient, their needs and the areas that need to be improved.

If the patient was hospitalized as a result of COVID-19, this prolonged ICU stay may have caused muscle weakness and decreased functionality, so the program would include early mobilization to help with forward-leaning motions, posture changes and sitting positions, among other movements. Endurance training may be part of the program as well, and low-intensity exercises will be recommended, and the patient may be asked to do stretching exercises and proper positioning movements with the use of a pillow. These exercises can be done while the patient is still in hospital, and they will be based on the patient’s condition. In-patient programs are very beneficial because they help patients learn to move comfortably again. The process may be slow, but these programs are very helpful.

Out-patient programs will include muscle-strengthening exercises through resistance training. Once the patient is discharged from the hospital, they should start resistance training with a reduced load and should increase this load a little bit every week. Balance exercises should also be completed to improve balance, as should aerobic exercises like walking or swimming. Always start with low intensity and complete these exercises for a short duration and gradually work your way up.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created health scares for everyone, and those who have tested positive for this virus understand how dangerous and severe the consequences and effects can be. Recovery can take time, but the right programs will help you get back on track so that you can return to your regular routine. Physiotherapy rehabilitation can help in this regard, and the experts at Dr. Charles Goldman can provide you with more information regarding the importance of this treatment in relation to COVID-19. We will gladly answer any questions you may have and will address all of your concerns, so if you are looking for physiotherapy near me, contact our clinic today!