CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) & Maintaining your Rehabilitation Program
As expected, with the rise in COVID-19, many people are being encouraged to self-isolate to limit the spread of this virus and the risk of exposure to the virus; especially those considered high-risk patients. High-risk include; older age (over 65years), underlying disease like high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, coronary heart disease and respiratory disease. Unfortunately many of the clients we see at On The Go Rehabilitation Services fit this criteria.
What most of the population forget is that when working with clients in health care we are continually exposed to a variety of diseases which are infectious and this is why we are required to follow strict infection control and hygiene protocols everyday. So, for us, this is not new but just another one to consider when treating people; especially those in the previously mentioned high risk category.
Why should you continue with your therapy then? Wouldn’t it be smart to self-isolate and turn your rehabilitation specialist away? The simple answer to this is no. Physiotherapy and other associated therapies are essential in keeping people moving and healthy. As we age we are less inclined to keep moving. Lack or loss of movement has profound social, psychological and physical consequences. Common factors are low physical activity, obesity, impaired strength and balance, and chronic disease such as diabetes and arthritis. This results in increased risk of falls and unfortunately in many cases hospitalisation.
Exercise/movement helps decrease your chances of developing heart/respiratory disease it also keeps you health and strong. It promotes changes in antibodies and white blood cells which are essential for the body’s immune system cells to fight disease. These antibodies or WBC’s circulate more rapidly, so they could detect illnesses earlier than they might have done before. Exercise slows the release of stress hormones. Some stress increases the chance of illness, lower stress may protect against illness. Exercise encourages healthy lungs, getting us to breathe deeper and more effectively. Aerating areas of the lungs where infections can manifest thereby preventing respiratory stress.
We can completely understand the need for self-isolating but please continue with the treatment plan your therapist has built with you. This treatment plan was developed to meet your needs and to improve your health and well-being. If at any stage they feel that they would be risking that they would cease treatment immediately.
If you or your family have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us on 0429115211. As mentioned, our only concern is your health and well-being.
Billie-Jo Thompson
Director (B.Pty, B.ExSc)
On The Go Rehabilitation Services