The hidden disability of post-viral long-term conditions. Role of PRM in advancing the science and clinical practice

At the #ISPRM2024 congress in Sydney, Dr. Manoj Sivan, President of the British Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (BSPRM), delivered the keynote Sidney Licht lecture on “The Hidden Disability of Post-Viral Long-Term Conditions: Role of PRM in Advancing the Science and Clinical Practice.” In a follow-up interview with Dr. Muhammad Tawab Khalil, co-chair of the ISPRM Communications Committee, Dr. Sivan shared valuable insights into the challenges and advancements in managing post-viral conditions, particularly long COVID.

Understanding Post-Viral Conditions

Dr. Sivan highlighted that post-viral conditions have gained significant attention due to long COVID but have been recognized long before this pandemic. “Most of the viral outbreaks actually have some long-term symptoms in some individuals,” he explained. These symptoms, including fatigue, breathlessness, brain fog, and pain, can affect multiple organ systems, making it a complex clinical syndrome.

Role of PRM Specialists

Dr. Sivan emphasized the unique role that Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) specialists play in managing these conditions. Unlike other medical specialties that focus on specific organs, PRM specialists adopt a holistic approach. “They work with the whole human body and functional limitations,” he noted. This generalist approach is crucial for addressing the diverse and widespread symptoms associated with post-viral conditions.

Dysautonomia in Post-COVID Syndrome

One of the key topics Dr. Sivan discussed was dysautonomia, a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which is prevalent in post-COVID syndrome. “We have looked at the markers of dysautonomia, and it’s alarmingly high in this condition,” he revealed. This pattern is also observed in other post-viral conditions, such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, indicating a broader issue that requires increased awareness and education.

Advice for Young PRM Physicians

For young PRM physicians entering the field, Dr. Sivan stressed the importance of understanding and managing chronic fatigue and pain. “These conditions are common, affecting about 10% of the population,” he said. He encouraged young doctors to get involved in patient care, understand the link between symptoms and dysautonomia, and pursue further research in this area.

Dr. Sivan’s insights at #ISPRM2024 underscored the critical role of PRM specialists in managing post-viral long-term conditions. His emphasis on a holistic, function-based approach highlights the importance of addressing these complex conditions with comprehensive care.