Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pulmonary Rehabilitation for COVID-19

Abstract

This analysis extrapolates information from prior studies and experiences to bring PM&R perspective and intervention to the multidisciplinary treatment of COVID-19. The purpose of pulmonary rehabilitation in COVID-19 patients is to improve symptoms of dyspnea, relieve anxiety, reduce complications, minimize disability, preserve function and improve quality of life. Pulmonary rehabilitation during the acute management of COVID-19 should be considered when possible and safe and may include nutrition, airway, posture, clearance technique, oxygen supplementation, breathing exercises, stretching, manual therapy, and physical activity. Given the possibility of long-term disability, outpatient post-hospitalization pulmonary rehabilitation may be considered in all patients hospitalized with COVID-19.

Public interest in spa therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic: analysis of Google Trends data among Turkey

“…Acute period rehabilitation focuses on supporting respiratory functions and preventing the complications of immobilization/bed rest (Gutenbrunner et al 2020 ; Liebl et al 2020 ; Siddiq et al 2020 ; Kurtaiş Aytür et al 2020 ; Wang et al 2020 ). In this period, rehabilitation interventions include positioning, respiration treatment, and early mobilization (Gutenbrunner et al 2020 ; Liebl et al 2020 ; Siddiq et al 2020 ; Kurtaiş Aytür et al 2020 ; Wang et al 2020 ). Long-term period rehabilitation focuses on improving ongoing respiratory problems and restoration of physical disabilities either resulted by directly COVID-19 (its musculoskeletal/neurological manifestations) (Ceravolo et al 2020 ; Gutenbrunner et al 2020 ; Barker-Davies et al 2020 ; Liebl et al 2020 ; Kurtaiş Aytür et al 2020 ; Wang et al 2020 ; Lopez et al 2020 ) or intensive care stay (post-intensive care syndrome) (Ceravolo et al 2020 ; Gutenbrunner et al 2020 ), addressing psychological issues (e.g., depression and anxiety) as well (Gutenbrunner et al 2020 ; Barker-Davies et al 2020 ).…”

Integrative medicine considerations for convalescence from mild-to-moderate COVID-19 disease

“…Based on an extensive literature review and clinical experience, Wang et al conclude that the best OMT techniques for COVID-19 recovery are modified segmental breathing, lymphatic drainage and rib cage mobility. 83 …”

Not only pulmonary rehabilitation for critically ill patients with COVID-19

“…Pulmonary rehabilitation is recommended to reduce symptoms of respiratory failure and distress and to restore pre-morbid functionality in the acute [2] and post-acute phase of COVID-19 [3]. Tailored respiratory rehabilitation in severe acute respiratory distress aims at mechanical ventilation weaning, and improving ventilation and oxygenation [4].…”