Treating Long COVID - A Physiotherapy Perspective

Overview:

There is growing evidence of a significant population of individuals affected by symptoms of COVID-19 infection for greater than four weeks. These individuals may seek physiotherapy care and it is important to be aware of how to manage rehab for these individuals. 

Objectives:

1. Review current literature on long-COVID
2. Identify symptoms and characteristics of long-COVID
3. Review current understandings of Post Viral Fatigue and post exertional malaise
4. Review respiratory dysfunction in long-COVID
5. Identify treatable traits and how to manage them in a physiotherapy setting

Speaker: Jessica DeMars

Jessica DeMars graduated from the University of Alberta in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Therapy (with distinction). She continued her education with numerous post-graduate courses in manual therapy, myofascial release, and acupuncture.

Since 2006, she has investigated the role of breathing dysfunction in health through various courses and certifications. This has evolved into a unique practice of addressing breathlessness in a variety of populations, primarily in the context of respiratory disease.

In 2015 she was awarded a grant through the Clinical Research Innovation Fund and investigated the link between dysfunctional breathing and asthma in children. With the onset of a respiratory pandemic in SARS-CoV2, she has transitioned into the treatment of Long Covid.