Long COVID Rehabilitation

Long COVID Rehabilitation

What is long COVID

Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a complex condition that affects individuals who have previously contracted COVID-19. While many people recover from the initial infection, some experience lingering and debilitating symptoms that can persist for weeks, months, or even longer. The precise number of people suffering from long COVID in Australia is difficult to pinpoint, however, data from UK and USA suggest that between 10-30% of people who contract COVID-19 may develop long COVID symptoms. Long COVID can affect anyone, although there are certain factors that my increase the likelihood of developing persistent symptoms such as severity of the initial COVID-19 infection, age and pre-existing health conditions.

Common signs and symptoms

Long COVID presents a wide range of symptoms that can significantly impact your daily life. Among the most prevalent are:

  • Fatigue: Persistent and overwhelming feeling of tiredness, even after minimal exertion.
  • Breathlessness: Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing, even during light activities.
  • Persistent Cough: Lingering cough, often associated with chest discomfort.
  • Brain Fog: Cognitive difficulties, impacting your ability to think clearly, concentrate, and remember things.
  • Muscle Aches: Pain and discomfort in your muscles that make movement and exercise challenging.

How we can help

At Heart & Lung Physio, we stay up to date with the latest research in long COVID and offer personalised programs that help you navigate the challenges of this condition. We ensure that you receive the support you need to regain your health and quality of life.

Comprehensive Assessment: We begin by conducting a thorough assessment to understand the extent of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. This helps us design a tailored treatment plan that focuses your individual needs and challenges.

Personalised Treatment: We employ a range of techniques to address the various symptoms of long COVID. Your program may include treatments such as breathing pattern retraining, fatigue management strategies and gentle exercise.

Gradual Progression: We understand that pacing is crucial during your recovery from long COVID as over-exertion may lead to a relapse of your symptoms. Our programs are designed to gradually progress as you regain strength, stamina, cognitive clarity, and relief from muscle aches, ensuring a safe and sustainable recovery process.

Continued Support: Coping with long COVID can be emotionally taxing. We provide necessary support and guidance to help you navigate the challenges and uncertainties that come with this condition. Recovery from long COVID can be slow and varies between individuals. We closely monitor your progress, making necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to ensure the best outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, you do not require a referral to enrol in our long-COVID rehabilitation program. We welcome individuals seeking support for long-COVID symptoms and their recovery journey. However, we strongly recommend discussing your participation with your healthcare providers, including your GP. This ensures that your care aligns with your unique medical history and needs, allowing for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to your recovery

Deciding when to begin long COVID rehabilitation depends on various factors. Generally, it’s recommended to consider long COVID rehabilitation when your acute symptoms have improved, and you’re experiencing persistent symptoms that last for a few weeks. We will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the optimal time to begin your long COVID rehabilitation program. Our goal is to design a personalised program that aligns with your unique needs and challenges. We understand that each person’s experience with long COVID is distinct, and our advice is tailored accordingly.

The duration of our long-COVID rehabilitation program varies based on your specific needs. Typically, programs last for a few weeks, with 1-3 sessions per week, depending on the level of support you require. We tailor your program to align with your recovery and rehabilitation goals. Sessions can be conducted in your home, via telehealth, or a combination of both, ensuring flexibility and personalised care throughout the program.

Managing day-to-day life with Long COVID involves pacing yourself, conserving energy, practicing self-care, and staying connected with your healthcare team. At Heart & Lung Physio, we’re here to support you in this journey. We provide guidance on pacing your activities, offer exercises tailored to your abilities, and address specific symptoms like breathlessness. Our aim is to empower you to regain control of your life while actively working towards recovery. You’re not alone; we’re with you every step of the way.

Contact us today to book an appointment or learn more about our long-COVID rehabilitation program.

Request Appointment

Our Services