Did you know that nearly 40% of the adult population in America has had COVID-19? Truthfully, that number is likely much higher because it does not include adults who tested positive at home and did not report their results.
The point is, about half of the U.S. adult population has had COVID-19, and there are several medical studies indicating the risk for long-term symptoms from this virus.
Symptoms of long-term COVID-19
These long-haul COVID-19 cases often present in symptoms such as:
- Chronic fatigue.
- Decreased ability to exercise; decreased endurance.
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
- Inability to return to work.
- Frequent dizzy spells.
- Balance and gait issues.
- New joint pains or muscle weaknesses from inactivity or extended periods of time in bed.
- Long-term symptoms like: difficulty with thinking and concentration (i.e., “brain fog”), depression, muscle pain, headaches, intermittent fever, fast-beating or pounding heart (also known as heart palpitations).
Fortunately, physical therapy has been shown to help rehabilitate people with long-term COVID-19 symptoms. Our research-based program is designed to address these long-term symptoms and rehabilitate you back to your normal lifestyle and function.
How does physical therapy treat COVID-19 symptoms?
Physical therapy can help address the ongoing symptoms you’ve been experiencing from COVID-19, even after you test negative from the virus. By targeting the body parts that have been damaged and restoring functionality, physical therapy can help you return to your normal activity levels after being bogged down by this virus for weeks or months.
Some specific areas that physical therapy for COVID-19 targets includes:
- Improved lung capacity.
- Functional training to return to physical activities.
- Gait and balance restoration.
- Cognitive function improvement.
- Work conditioning.
What to expect during treatment
During your initial appointment, your physical therapist will evaluate your current physical condition and make note of your ongoing symptoms. You will discuss your recovery goals and then work together to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your long-haul COVID symptoms and works to improve your overall health and wellness.
Once a plan is in place, you can begin working with your physical therapist over the next several weeks to restore your physical and cognitive functionality.
Ready to get started? Find a location near you today and schedule a free screening.
