Sunday Conversation – January 16, 2022
Physical/Occupational Therapy for ME/CFS and Similar Chronic Illnesses
Discussants:
Featuring Kenneth J. Friedman, Ph.D.
Adjunct Associate Professor of Medicine,
School of Osteopathic Medicine of Rowan University, Stratford, NJ
Alba Azola, MD
Assistant Professor
Co-director of the PMR Post-Acute COVID-19 Team (JH PACT) Program
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Amy Mooney, MS OTR/L
Licensed Occupational Therapist
Mom of a severely ill daughter with ME/CFS
The overlap of symptoms in ME/CFS, long-haul COVID, and other post-infectious illnesses suggests that the symptoms are not unique to the individual conditions. Rather, they represent a common response, most likely with similar underlying pathophysiologies. Guiding principles of patient management are then set forward for all healthcare providers including physical and occupational therapists.
Dr. Friedman has contributed to three nationally-recognized primers on ME/CFS, written numerous articles about the disease in peer-reviewed journals, participated in the U.S. Department of Health’s Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory Committee, and edited three medical journal issues focused on ME/CFS. His research suggests ME/CFS is one of many post-infectious illnesses with similar symptoms and pathophysiologies, and that advances in one illness could benefit others.
Dr. Azola offers her perspective as a clinician working with over 900 patients in a Long Covid clinic; 30 – 35% meet the criteria for ME/CFS.
Amy Mooney, MS OTR/L, offers her comments about the unique perspective and guidance that Occupational Therapy offers.
The Moderator for this event is Kerry Lang, LMHC, an expressive art therapist and the Wellness and Mental Health Program Manager at the Dean Center for Tick Borne Illness at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston, MA. She also leads support groups for Long Covid patients.