This study seeks to assess the impact of physical and pulmonary rehabilitation on patients who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the short and long term in hopes of establishing a best practices protocol for treatment of future patients with this disease.
The novel coronavirus that began in Wuhan, China in late 2019 made an appearance in the
United States in January 2020. It is a respiratory disease spreading rapidly from person to
person. Recent data shows that fibrosis is seen on the lungs, and possible myocardial damage.
Data shows that physical therapy was not highly utilized in recovery for these patients due
to high PPE demands, and increased risk of exposure. This study will be using telehealth
services to assess and treat these patients so Physical Therapy guidance is provided for
movement and returning to prior level of function. Currently there is no data showing the
long term effects of the those who were able to utilize Physical Therapy in recovering from
COVID-19 This study will be looking at the differences in outcomes of COVID-19 positive
subjects who able to complete Physical Therapy Telehealth visits versus those who did not.
All groups will be tested at multiple data points for lung capacity, upper and lower
extremity strength, and overall endurance to determine the long term functional effects. The
control group were diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovered before the Physical and Pulmonary
protocol was implemented.
Behavioral: Therapy Intervention
Patients receive 2-4 visits (based on patient presentation and need) of physical therapy, up to 4 visits of occupational therapy, up to 4 visits of speech therapy based on need. Treatment focuses on physical strengthening, pulmonary strengthening/breathing exercises, and cognitive rehabilitation.
Inclusion Criteria:
- >Age of 18
- Positive COVID-19 diagnosis in the last 6 months
Exclusion Criteria:
- Age of <18
Missouri Orthopedic Institute
Columbia, Missouri, United States