Possibility of using therapeutic massage in rehabilitation after covid-19

Abstract

Purpose of the research was to assess the influence of an individual classical back massage session as well as the effects of an entire 8-session back massage therapy on cardiological and spirometry parameters in a patient after recovering from COVID-19, with constant monitoring of massage areas’ temperature changes. Continuous oxygen saturation monitoring during the massage sessions enabled to observe a decrease in the level of this parameter during utilisation of rubbing and tapotement on muscles of both the right and the left side of the back. During the usage of the intense massage techniques SaO2 dropped maximally to 92– 93%. The observed changes in the VA/Q ratio that occurred in response to the 8-session massage therapy lasting for 3 weeks might indicate that better conditions for ventilation and oxygen perfusion at the alveolar surface were reached. This translated in the patient who recovered from COVID-19 into 2% increase in oxygen saturation level after completing the massage therapy. Conclusion. Utilising the intense rubbing and tapotement techniques has to be carefully considered due to their significant influence on decrease in the level of saturation.