Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
Long COVID: A Significant and Real Condition
Post-COVID syndrome (Long COVID) is defined as symptoms persisting beyond 12 weeks after acute COVID-19 infection that cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. It affects an estimated 10-30% of COVID survivors, creating a large population requiring rehabilitation in Faridabad and across India. The most common Long COVID symptoms are fatigue, breathlessness (dyspnoea), cognitive impairment (brain fog), muscle weakness, and exercise intolerance.
The Critical Importance of Appropriate Pacing
Unlike most rehabilitation scenarios where pushing through some discomfort is appropriate, Long COVID patients -- particularly those with significant post-exertional malaise (PEM) -- must not exceed their current energy capacity. PEM (worsening of symptoms after physical or cognitive exertion that persists for 24-72 hours) is a hallmark of Long COVID and indicates that aggressive physiotherapy can worsen the condition. We carefully assess each patient for PEM before prescribing any exercise.
Physiotherapy Rehabilitation for Long COVID
Heart Rate Monitoring and Pacing
Staying below the anaerobic threshold (typically 60-70% of maximum heart rate, or using the talk test) during all activity prevents PEM exacerbation.
Breathing Exercises
Breathing retraining addressing: breathlessness (using positions of ease, breathing control), dysfunctional breathing patterns, and diaphragmatic breathing efficiency.
Graduated Activity Increase
Very gradual activity progression, starting from current functional baseline. Increase by no more than 10-15% per week. Monitoring symptoms to guide progression -- a key difference from standard rehabilitation.
Fatigue Management Strategies
Energy conservation, activity pacing, cognitive fatigue management, and sleep hygiene strategies.
Long COVID Rehabilitation in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we provide specialist Long COVID rehabilitation. Book your consultation today.