COVID-19 AND CHRONIC PAIN
HOW YOUR PHYSICAL THERAPIST CAN HELP
According to the American Physical Therapy Association, around 116 million Americans suffer from chronic pain each year. Unfortunately, with the coronavirus pandemic still going strong in the United States, chronic pain sufferers might be at greater risk of contracting COVID-19. Dr. Samer Narouze of Western Reserve Hospital says that’s because “there is a complex relationship between chronic pain and the immune system.” Narouze adds that chronic pain patients “can be considered immunocompromised, mainly because so many are elderly and have multiple comorbidities.” On top of that, people who contract COVID-19 may be at risk of developing chronic pain after the rest of the symptoms abate. Older adults are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 — especially if they have preexisting conditions. Additionally, some older adults develop chronic pain after contracting COVID-19, due to the disease itself and its treatment. For example, patients who have been treated in an intensive care unit and have spent prolonged periods being immobile and reliant on ventilators might experience chronic pain as a result. This is especially true for those who don’t do rehabilitation following their hospital stay.
Additionally, patients who are socially isolated during their hospital stay, and following their discharge, can experience a psychological burden, which makes them more susceptible to chronic pain. If you contracted COVID-19 and are now recovering from the symptoms, look out for signs of chronic pain, like body stiffness during activities, decreased circulation, or weight gain. You may also notice that other conditions are worsening or you’re relying more on pain medications. If you think you might be experiencing chronic pain in the wake of the COVID-19, talk to a health care professional about your symptoms and ask if physical therapy can help. Physical therapists help their patients alleviate chronic pain through strength training and flexibility exercises, as well as through developing greater awareness of body mechanics. Don’t wait to talk to a physical therapist about your chronic pain — contact us today!
TAKE A BREAK
O
y
Skip the can-shaped cranberry sauce this year and bring a jar of
homemade sauce to Thanksgiving instead. This easy recipe can be made ahead of the big event and keeps for 10 days in the fridge.
INGREDIENTS
•
1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
•
12 oz fresh cranberries
•
1/2 cup water
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2 tsp orange zest
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3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp sugar
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Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the orange juice, water, and sugar to a boil. Add other ingredients, then bring mixture back to boiling.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and cook gently for 10–12 minutes, until the cranberries burst.
3. Transfer the sauce to a bowl or jar, cover, and refrigerate until serving.
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