In past 6 weeks since ReActive Physiotherapy had to shut its doors to in-person care, many exciting things have been going on behind the scenes. Our staff has been using this time to reconnect with loved ones, enjoy physical activity and leisure, and work on continued professional development. Our staff is ensuring that when we do open, we are up to date on all of our infection control practices and cleaning procedures to make a safe treatment environment for our cherished clients.
We have also been increasing our skills and competencies using telehealth platforms to meet our clients’ needs at home. Our clients are giving us excellent feedback about being able to continue with their goals while at home and physical distancing to #flattenthecurve. Similarly, we have felt the disappointment of our clients that have had elective surgeries including total joint replacements postponed. While mostly serving as a compassionate ear, we are also encouraging clients to be active at home and have started offering our GLA:D exercise classes virtually as well as linking patients with the resources from the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation.
We also are witnessing a growing and intense need for clients that have survived COVID-19 and are home and recovering but need rehabilitation. After COVID-19 people face a wide range of difficulties – from weakness in their breathing muscles causing shortness of breath, to stiffness around their rib cage and trunk and profound fatigue. In more severe cases, some clients at the hospital needed oxygen therapy, time on a ventilator and long stretches of time in bed to recover. This will increase their deconditioning and weakness.
In response to this, ReActive Physiotherapy is thrilled to announce that we are now offering our “COVID-19 Survivorship Program of Care”. This is physiotherapy using telehealth for all Ontarians that are COVID-19 survivors. We hope this program will offer clients that are recovering at home guidance for their breathing, physical, and mental well-being. The program involves education materials, individual assessment and treatment plans. If you or a loved one have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us!
In good health,
Allison Francis, PT