Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a complex and debilitating condition that affects individuals long after their initial recovery from COVID-19. Understanding and addressing the challenges of long COVID recovery have become crucial as the world navigates through this unprecedented time. The challenges faced by individuals experiencing Long COVID range from cognitive issues (like forgetfulness and brain fog), dizziness, dysautonomia, dysregulation of heart rate (POTS) or blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension), shortness of breath, gastrointestinal disorders, physical or mental activity intolerance, low-grade fever, muscle weakness or joint pain. The good news is that there are therapy treatments available to help support those experiencing this syndrome.
Long COVID manifests as a range of persistent symptoms, including extreme fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, muscle and joint pain, and mood disorders. These symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, making it difficult to perform daily activities and return to pre-COVID levels of functioning. Moreover, the unpredictable nature of symptoms and their fluctuating intensity can make it hard to plan and maintain a consistent recovery path.
Recovering from long COVID requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the physical and mental aspects of the condition. Seeking medical guidance from professionals who specialize in long COVID is crucial for proper diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. Specialists can help develop personalized recovery plans that may include physical therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychological support.
Professional support systems play a vital role in long COVID recovery. The World Health Organization states that a patient-specific rehabilitation program, combined with nutritional optimization and lifestyle counseling will lead to a more rapid improvement in functional performance and long-term outcomes. Some of the techniques our team provides include:
- Physical Therapy Evaluation to identify the systems involved, the impairments that need to be addressed, and to design a personalized plan to meet the client’s needs.
- 12-week personalized treatment protocol (insurance coverage may vary).
- Patient education and resources will be provided on avoiding exacerbating symptoms, breathing techniques, improving vagus nerve function, and creating immune resilience.
- Training with our certified exercise physiologist to rebuild exercise tolerance and strength.
- Athletic training to return to sports performance or fitness hobbies.
- Modalities to improve peripheral vascular and nervous system function such as compression therapy, H-wave, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.
- Nutrition and supplementation consultation, lifestyle modification, and functional nutrition coaching.
While the challenges of long COVID recovery can be overwhelming, there is hope for improvement and restoration of health. Staying informed about the latest advancements can offer optimism and inspire individuals to explore different avenues of recovery. Partnering with our team can help patients to navigate and manage symptoms.
The journey of long COVID recovery is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right support, and self-care, individuals can find their way to a brighter future. If you are living with Long COVID connect with our team through our socials or give us a call at 901.316.5456 to see how we can support you in your recovery.
