Physical Therapy Role During Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

COVID-19 is spreading every minute which is affecting every aspect of life. These are very worst and unusual times. The third wave of this deadly virus is spreading now a days which is worse than first two waves. As a health care
professional this wave is impacting us both personally and professionally. A physical therapist has an important role than before during these crucial times. Normally Physical therapists are in direct contact with patients because they have to do physical examination and assessment of their patients to check their physical condition or deformities, disabilities to give them proper treatment accordingly. Because of this physical therapists are at a higher risk of getting infected by these infectious diseases. As we all know now a days people from all the professions are working from home. Due to this everyone is facing body pains such as neck pain, back pain, numbness in legs. pains radiating from back into legs. As computer users are spending more time in front of screens. Their working postures are very bad as the table and eye level is not compatible, it can cause tenderness, trigger points and stiffness in neck area as well as thoracic pain. As there is a global
lock down, there is no physical activity. People can't go to parks or do their regular exercises. This is causing back pain, weakness of muscles, obesity and other health problems. As a physical therapist, I would suggest everyone should do
physical exercises at home like stretching, strengthening and yoga exercises etc. which will help their weak muscles to strengthen. Posture plays a great role in body pains especially for neck and back pain. Maintaing correct posture
during working hours even at home is very important. It can help in decreasing 50% of body pains at initial level. Physical therapy exercises and physical activity is very important during such critical COVID-19 times. As it will help in physical and mental health as well as physical activity helps in relieving stress and anxiety.