An Overview of Literature Related to Post COVID-19 Rehabilitation

OBJECTIVE(S): To examine current literature on the role of physical therapy (PT) in management of post COVID-19 related conditions and common symptomatology in adults, as well as potential guidelines for rehabilitation in the outpatient setting. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, CINAHL, Medline, Cochrane. STUDY SELECTION: Searches were conducted to examine current data related to PT interventions and their effectiveness for treating post COVID-19 conditions. Articles were evaluated for relevance based on the following criteria: articles in English, original peer reviewed articles, adult population (over 18), relevant PT interventions for rehabilitation, post-acute infection of COVID-19. Consensus agreement confirmed approximately 25% of reviewed articles. DATA EXTRACTION: Articles were analyzed for relevance to implications regarding post COVID-19 and potential PT rehabilitation interventions. Interventions were assessed in feasibility and applicability to an outpatient clinic setting. Independent Data Extraction followed by consensus discussion was applied. Articles were examined for content regarding the latest updates on disease criteria, manifestations, new classifications, and cohorts emerging as the pandemic progresses as well as management strategies applicable to PT practice. DATA SYNTHESIS: After article analysis, the findings include a key theme that PT services helped improve overall functional mobility and symptom management in patients after an acute infection of COVID-19. An essential consideration is keeping the interventions specific to the patient and their goals while preventing exacerbations of symptoms that could lead to further setbacks. CONCLUSIONS: PT has a growing role in the management of post COVID-19 deficits as well as implications related to long COVID sequelae. By choosing the appropriate parameters and having awareness of the varying symptomology amongst patients, physical therapists can improve patients’ functional mobility and post COVID-19 disease management. The focus of future studies should include more specific interventions related to managing conditions and finding the most effective treatment strategies. AUTHOR(S) DISCLOSURES: No conflicts to disclose.