Chest Physiotherapy Interventions for Children During SARS-COV-2 Pandemic

Nidhi Sharma1, Aksh Chahal2, Abhishek Sharma3

  • 1Department of Neurological Physiotherapy, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, India.

Clinical Pediatrics
|April 26, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Physiotherapy can help children manage Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2/Coronavirus Disease 2019 (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19) symptoms. Interventions focus on breathing, airway clearance, and early mobilization for better recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

  • The global spread of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 has created a significant public health crisis.
  • Limited research exists on the clinical presentation and physiotherapy management of COVID-19 in children.
  • There is a need for effective strategies to manage pediatric COVID-19 symptoms, especially during self-quarantine.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of physiotherapy in managing children with SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19.
  • To identify key physiotherapy interventions for pediatric COVID-19 patients.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, PEDro, and Google Scholar.
  • Medical Subject Headings and Descriptors of Science and Health were used for search strategy development.
  • Reference lists of relevant papers were screened to identify additional pertinent studies.

Main Results:

  • Physiotherapy interventions can be beneficial for children diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19.
  • Key interventions include ventilatory management, airway clearance techniques, and early mobilization.
  • Supportive measures like oxygen therapy, non-invasive ventilation, and prone positioning are crucial when indicated.

Conclusions:

  • Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the multidisciplinary management of pediatric SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19.
  • Early and appropriate physiotherapy can improve outcomes and aid recovery in children affected by the virus.

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