The term
long COVID was coined by patients to describe the long-term consequences of
COVID-19. One year into the pandemic, it was clear that all patients-those hospitalized with
COVID-19 and those who lived with the disease in the community-were at risk of developing debilitating sequelae that would impact their quality of life. Patients with
long COVID asked for rehabilitation. Many of them, including previously healthy and fit clinicians, tried to fight postviral
fatigue with exercise-based rehabilitation. We observed a growing number of patients with
long COVID who experienced adverse effects from
exercise therapy and symptoms strikingly similar to those of
myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Community-based physical therapists, including those in private practice, unaware of safety issues, are preparing to help an influx of patients with
long COVID. In this editorial, we expose growing concerns about
long COVID and ME. We issue safety recommendations for rehabilitation and share resources to improve care for those with postviral illnesses. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2021;51(5):197-200. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.0106.