Mersey Care's Long Covid Service launches new exercise App for patients

Friday, 12 July 2024

Mersey Care’s Long COVID service has developed content for an online app to help speed up the recovery of patients suffering from the effects of the debilitating condition.

Working in partnership with Physitrack, the Long COVID service have filmed a series of breathing, movement and mindfulness videos that have been uploaded to the app, known as PhysiApp, allowing patients to see therapists performing the movements and techniques demonstrated in clinic.

The team can remotely monitor their patients’ activity via the new dashboard as they work through their tailored plan, which also allows them to comment on how they feel whilst participating in the movement and techniques.

“The resources we’re making available on the app, allow us to work closely with our patients to develop a personalised treatment plan, that can ad​​​​​​​dress not just physical symptoms but also emotional and mental wellbeing,” explained Dr Chris Barker, Mersey Care’s Clinical Director.

“The Long COVID service aims to empower patients with the knowledge and confidence to help manage their symptoms and regain control of their health.”

Those suffering from Long COVID can experience a variety of symptoms, including extreme tiredness and fatigue, feeling short of breath, problems with memory and concentration (otherwise known as brain fog), heart palpitations, dizziness, joint pain and muscle aches

According to the Office for National Statistics, around 1.9 million people living in private households in the UK reported to be suffering from Long COVID symptoms on 6 March 2023. If you think you’re suffering from any of these symptoms, please go and see your GP for a referral.

The app with all the exercises, breathing techniques and mindfulness is available to patients of Mersey Care’s Long COVID service. Referrals into one of their clinics are made via your GP, who will need to confirm it has been over 12 weeks since your COVID symptoms started.

You also need to be registered with a GP in Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton or St Helens.

Find out more about Mersey Care's Long Covid Service.