For those who have battled and defeated the corona-virus, we understand that there are lingering effects that will take some time to overcome. Physical therapy is a great asset that can aid in a patient’s recovery.
One of the things we are now seeing and hearing regarding COVID-19 is patients who are very weak and suffering from PICS, or post intensive care syndrome, after overcoming the virus. Their lung capacity has been reduced and they are short of breath. Those that used to be able to walk 10 blocks can now only walk for 1 or 2 blocks. Some patients also are left feeling weak and are at risk of falling because their balance has been affected from being in bed for so long.
Many people with COVID-19 received care, were admitted into the hospital and were bed-bound for a certain period of time. It could be two weeks to a month in the hospital while their bodies were de-conditioning day by day. Once they were discharged and returned home they were not sure what to do or what not to do, or if this was something they now had to learn to live with. That’s where we are ready to step in to help.
Patients should be exercising, moving around, and slowly building strength and building up their core muscles in a supervised setting. Going to a gym for unsupervised exercise puts the patients at risk for continuing muscular and respiratory issues, which can lead to mental health issues as well.
Trinity Rehab has an educated and professional staff that is well-trained in how to help patients regain their strength in a safe and graded way, along with technology that can help facilitate their return to health. Our AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill, which we use to help with endurance training, can benefit many recovering patients. We can also provide education on what to do at home and a proper diet.
Those who may be feeling the side effects after recovering from COVID-19 can schedule an in-person appointment or a virtual visit with Trinity. We will consult and advise the patient on what rehab will work best for them.
By: Rose Hernandez, DPT, CSCS, CKTP
Region 1 Director & Athletic Director
