Long COVID can cause persistent fatigue and weakness. Physiotherapy can help rebuild stamina and function through safe, gradual movement.
If you’ve been feeling persistently tired, weak, or breathless for weeks — or even months — after recovering from COVID-19, you’re not alone. Many Canadians are experiencing what’s now commonly called long COVID, and one of the most debilitating symptoms is chronic fatigue.
The good news? Physiotherapy can play a crucial role in helping you manage your symptoms, rebuild strength, and gradually regain your quality of life.
What Is Long COVID?
Long COVID, or post-COVID condition, refers to symptoms that persist for more than 12 weeks after a COVID-19 infection, and can’t be explained by another diagnosis.
Common symptoms include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Muscle or joint pain
- Dizziness or heart palpitations
- Sleep disturbances
These symptoms often worsen after physical or mental activity — a pattern known as post-exertional malaise (PEM).
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapists across Canada — including here in Toronto — are working with patients recovering from long COVID. While there’s no one-size-fits-all fix, physiotherapy offers structured, customized, and evidence-informed care.
1. Pacing and Energy Management
Long COVID fatigue isn’t the same as normal tiredness. Pushing through it can actually make things worse. Physiotherapy focuses on:
- Pacing – balancing activity with rest to avoid symptom flare-ups
- Energy conservation – managing daily activities without draining your reserves
- Activity diaries – identifying patterns that lead to crashes
2. Breathing Retraining
Breathlessness and dysfunctional breathing are common post-COVID. Physios may introduce:
- Diaphragmatic breathing techniques
- Postural education to support efficient breathing
- Pulmonary rehab methods to enhance lung capacity
3. Gentle Exercise & Movement
Once it’s safe to do so, your physiotherapist will guide you through low-intensity, tailored movements to support recovery without overloading your system:
- Light stretching
- Mobility exercises
- Seated movement or gentle walking plans
4. Nervous System Regulation
Long COVID can affect your autonomic nervous system. Physios may introduce:
- Relaxation and breath work
- Gentle somatic-based movement
- Education around stress and body awareness
Is Physiotherapy Safe for Long COVID?
Yes — as long as it’s delivered by a qualified provider and tailored to your current health. At our Toronto clinic, we use symptom-led care that meets you where you are — never pushing beyond what your body can safely handle.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from long COVID fatigue isn’t about bouncing back. It’s about building back — slowly, intentionally, and with support.
Physiotherapy offers a practical and compassionate path forward, helping you understand your body, rebuild safely, and regain control over your daily life.
📍 If you’re in Toronto and dealing with long COVID symptoms, our experienced physiotherapists can help. Book your assessment today — and start feeling like yourself again, one step at a time.
