The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably changed everything about our current state of being; between the physical distancing restrictions, limited social interactions, financial and employment changes, and having limited access to recreation and leisure activities – it almost feels like we’re living in a sci-fi movie! (…and not in a good way!)
Aside from the devastating and life-threatening effects of the virus on people’s health, another concern is on the rise. This growing concern (and those suffering from it) goes by many names – “Long COVID”, “post-acute COVID-19”, or more commonly "COVID Long Haulers”. A formal definition has yet to be decided upon, however; most published studies agree that an individual is considered to be a COVID Long Hauler is they have persisting symptoms for 3-6+ months after they initially contracted the virus.
These symptoms can vary widely from person to person, but long haulers are largely categorized into two groups: those who experience permanent damage to their lungs, heart, kidneys, and/or brain, or those who experience symptoms despite no proven damage to these organs.
As more research is being conducted, it’s becoming more evident how prevalent Long COVID actually is! A recent study published in the US found that 35% of COVID 19 survivors had ongoing symptoms 3 weeks after their infection. It is currently estimated that 10-30% of COVID survivors have persisting symptoms after 12 weeks from the initial infection and 34% of people receive a diagnosis of a neurological or psychological condition within 6 months of their infection. These statistics are staggering, frightening, and more importantly, are continuing to climb as more research becomes available!
What does Long COVID look like? What does it feel like? Unfortunately, the number and severity of symptoms is extremely widespread, however; there are several symptoms that appear to be consistent amongst COVID long haulers:
The good news is…there is hope! There is help! There is something that can be done!
Current research suggests that a holistic or integrated approach to COVID19 Long Hauler rehabilitation or treatment is ideal, to ensure all aspects of a person’s well-being are being treated, not just their physical symptoms. Various programs are available, including programs at Pillars of Wellness.
Physiotherapy has been considered an essential service since the onset of the pandemic, but how can physiotherapy help COVID Long Haulers? Read on to find out more!
Feeling weak and fatigued? Physiotherapy can help!
Feeling short of breath or have a racing heartbeat? Physiotherapy can help!
Feeling off balance, dizzy or suffering from falls? Physiotherapy can help!
Feeling stiffness and pain? Physiotherapy can help!
As you can see, Physiotherapy can help manage many of your physical symptoms related to Long COVID. If you are a COVID Long Hauler and are suffering from any of these symptoms, please contact Pillars of Wellness today to find out how we can help! We offer 15 minute complimentary consultations for all of our services, so you can speak to one (or more!) of our clinicians and feel confident that you are receiving the best care possible.