Cheshire physio warns of long Covid symptoms

9 Apr 2021 11:28
Published by: Scott Callan

A physiotherapist and independent prescriber is urging people not to ignore the symptoms of long Covid after recovering from the virus himself.

 

Rick Carter, (pictured), one of few private practitioners in the UK qualified to prescribe medication, is treating many patients for problems associated with long Covid in his Crewe and Nantwich clinics.

 

The father-of-three, who has practised in the area since 1994, said: “I was hit hard by the virus in October. I’ve recovered other than lingering issues with fatigue so I can totally empathise with patients feeling frustrated by ongoing issues.

 

“Initially there was talk of long Covid actually being a ‘thing’ but evidence has shown millions to be suffering. Last week’s ONS survey has suggested at least one in five people have symptoms which limit their daily activities for over a month after initial infection.

 

“Often low mood, brain fog, fatigue, joint pain, muscle aches are residual issues. These are sometimes difficult to separate out from other conditions that may have similar symptoms. 

 

“It’s complex and needs time, patience, care and continuing support from our network of local and national healthcare professionals.  

 

“All our therapists spend time exploring the nature of our clients conditions and often Covid continues to cause issues many months after the virus has been contracted.”

 

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) survey pointed to common problems including fatigue, headaches, coughs, sore throats and muscle pain.  Tiredness was the one most experienced with some people surveyed unable to walk very far at all.

 

Now ctchealthcare’s registered physiotherapists are working alongside psychologists and hypnotherapists to treat patients for the physical and mental symptoms of long Covid including low mood and trouble sleeping.

Mr Carter, who is trained to prescribe medication such as pain killers and anti-inflammatories to help enhance patient recovery, added: “At ctchealthcare we pride ourselves in completing episodes of care, thinking beyond the symptoms which present themselves in clinic.

“Our company strapline is ‘making you feel better’ and over the years we have encouraged a more holistic approach - caring for the whole person – mind, body and soul.

 

“Prevention is very much regarded ‘better than cure’ and companies that we work with see the benefits of supporting the mental and physical wellbeing of employees. 

 

“With long Covid now a national issue we urge patients and workplaces to recognise the symptoms and seek help.”

 

The company has been at the forefront of health and wellbeing provision to private and corporate clients across Cheshire and Staffordshire for nearly 27 years.

 

Mr Carter, who has worked with the Premier League as well as local sides, began as a one man physiotherapy clinic working from a GP surgery in Crewe.

 

There are now ctchealthcare clinics in Crewe, Nantwich, Stafford and Stoke providing physiotherapy, sports massage, acupuncture and a range of complementary and holistic therapies.

 

For more information on long Covid recovery programmes call 01270 361363 or visit www.ctchealthcare.co.uk

You may be interested in