HYDERABAD: As the state continues to witness a surge in
Covid-19
cases, which is not only affecting older adults but also the younger population, doctors discussed the crucial role of
physiotherapy
that not just helps in recovery but can also prove to be a boon for
patients
amid the second wave of the
Covid
pandemic.
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According to the
physiotherapists
on the front line TOI spoke to, they are seeing a range of people in hospital, from those in their early 30s through to people in their 80s and say that if symptoms of Covid are not managed on time, they can have a prolonged limitation in functional capacity, hamper the quality of life and delay return to work and normal routine.
“It is important to note that Covid-19 patients benefit immensely from physiotherapy which can prevent risk of ICU acquired weaknesses and promote rapid functional recovery,” said Dr Thomas Parey, senior physiotherapist, Apollo Health City. Physiotherapists also said that for many patients admitted to the hospital with Covid-19, surviving the virus is only half of the battle. “Once deemed virus-free, it is often a long road to recovery including rebuilding lung capacity and overall respiratory health. To combat such problems and prevent risk of ICU acquired weaknesses, it is important that they consider physiotheraphy which helps promote rapid functional recovery,” said Dr Thomas.
As per WHO guidelines, physiotherapy can play an important role in the rehabilitation of patients with Covid to improve lung function and oxygen saturation levels, apart from other symptoms. “Since there is infection in the lung, there will be respiratory distress. So we are training the lung muscles for them to become strong. In Covid-19 patients, the air will not go to the lower end of the lung. Physiotherapy exercises to improve lung function helps air goes deep into the lungs more easily,” said Dr Mahmood Hussain, physiotherapy HOD, Care Hospitals.