Free therapy helps recovered Covid-19 patients return to normal routines

Quick diagnosis and supportive care are some of the factors that have helped the UAE see a steady rise in the number of its Covid-19 recoveries, which have reached over 90 per cent of total cases.

Some hospitals are taking the treatment beyond recovery, supporting patients through wellness programmes and rehabilitation therapies that can help them return to their normal life. 

According to the World Health Organisation, in severe cases of Covid-19, the patient is left weak and dependent on assistance of others to complete basic tasks, such as washing, dressing up, and walking.

A free-of-cost rehabilitation programme has been launched for Covid-19 patients in Ras Al Khaimah. This  programme by RAK Hospital comprises physician consultations, diet advice, psychological support and physical therapy.

Dr Raza Siddiqui, executive director of the hospital, said: "We decided to launch the free-of-cost  programme to enable patients who recovered from Covid-19 to return to enjoying normal life with their families."  

Wellness clinics In Abu Dhabi, LLH Hospital has introduced wellness clinics to track the recovery of patients. A team of doctors conduct physical and mental assessments and refer patients requiring special care to specialists.    

Dr Shehnas Puthiyaveettil Abu, specialist at LLH Abu Dhabi, said: "We noticed that some patients who were critical face shortness of breath, fatigue and muscle pain even now. This led us to launch these wellness clinics that are seeing an overwhelming response."

The clinics also help patients cope with stress and anxiety through counselling sessions.

Focusing more on the psychological needs of Covid-19 patients, Dubai's Aster Hospitals also launched a support group called 'Cosmos'. It provides a digital platform for patients to interact with each other, share their thoughts, and stay connected with their doctors, dietitians and family members.

It focuses on motivating patients recovering in isolation; helps them deal with mental trauma, anxiety, and depression; and provides physical therapy and nutrition advice.

saman@khaleejtimes.com