Case Report

Abstract

Background and Purpose: This case report describes the hydrotherapy sessions received in conjunction with a rehabilitation program designed for a patient recovering from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with intensive care unit (ICU)–acquired muscle weakness. The primary purpose of this case report was to examine the effects of hydrotherapy in a patient recovered from COVID-19 with ICU-acquired muscle weakness in the absence of any cross-infection. Case Description: The subject was a 29-year-old man in recovery after contracting COVID-19 infection and ICU-acquired muscle weakness. On admission to the orthopedic rehabilitation ward at Sheba Medical Center, the patient tested negative for COVID-19 according to the polymerase chain reaction test. Intervention: The patient received 4 hydrotherapy sessions that involved exercising in warm water (31°C-35°C) to improve muscle strength in a non- or low–weight-bearing capacity. A standard physical therapy program was also provided to the patient. Outcome: Following 2 weeks of rehabilitation that included 4 hydrotherapy sessions combined with a standard physiotherapy regimen, the patient was discharged home and able to walk outdoors independently for at least 30 minutes. Aside from the inclusion of specific personal protective equipment and social distancing (2 m), no additional requirements were necessary to our standard pool hygiene and no adverse infections were reported. Discussion: The results of this case report showed that hydrotherapy is a useful modality in the rehabilitation of ICU-acquired muscle weakness developed as a result of COVID-19.