The theme of this year’s World Physiotherapy Day (8 September) focuses on rehabilitation and Long COVID and the role of physiotherapists in the treatment and management of people affected by Long COVID.

Grace, a dedicated Physiotherapist at Healthy Connections, shares her expert insights on how Physiotherapy can aid in recovery:

What is Long COVID?

Most people with COVID-19 feel better within a few days or weeks of their first symptoms and make a full recovery within 12 weeks. However, for some people, symptoms can last longer which is called long COVID or post COVID-19 syndrome. Long COVID is a new condition which is still being studied.

The most common symptoms of long COVID are:

• Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
• Dizziness
• Joint pain and muscle aches
• Feeling short of breath
• Problems with memory and concentration (brain fog)
• Heart palpitations

Other symptoms include chest tightness, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, loss of appetite, headaches, changes to smell and taste.

What can you do if you are experiencing Long COVID symptoms?

Pacing:

Pacing is an approach to balance activities with rest to avoid exacerbation of symptoms. It includes setting realistic goals, monitoring physical, cognitive and social activities and their effects on energy levels. By pacing, it avoids the possibility of over-exertion which may worsen symptoms.

Eating a balanced diet:

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is an important part of maintaining good health and help you feel your best. This means eating a variety of foods in the right proportions.

Exercise and Physical activity:

Exercise and physical activity are often recommended as public health and rehabilitation interventions to prevent, manage or improve diseases, health related challenges, disability, quality of life and wellbeing.

Physical activity of all forms might benefit some people living with Long COVID but could exacerbate symptoms in others. Using a cautious approach to physical activity will likely support longer-term recovery. It can help to start small and listen to your body. An example includes taking small movement breaks every hour that you’re sitting.

Long COVID is different for everyone, and rehabilitation for Long COVID must be tailored to the individual. Physiotherapists play a key role in delivering safe and effective rehabilitation that is fundamental to recovery after COVID-19.

Healthy Connections has a team of experienced Physiotherapists to help you with your recovery of Long COVID. We offer health fund rebates and funding through Home Care Packages and Commonwealth Home Support Program. Our Physiotherapy services are available at our Chermside clinic and through mobile services for Brisbane’s Northside.

To book in for an assessment at Healthy Connections, call us on 3624 2185 or visit us at 60 Kuran Street, Chermside.