Musculoskeletal Effects of COVID-19
By: Menachem M.Meller, M.D., Ph.D., FAAOS, Orthopedic Surgeon
Have you had COVID-19? Is your energy less than it was? Do you now have muscle aches and joint pain which weren’t there before? You may not be imagining it; it may be a residual of your COVID-19 infection.
COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, the virus can affect other parts of the body, including the musculoskeletal system. Here are some of the musculoskeletal effects of COVID-19:
- Myalgia: Myalgia is a term used to describe muscle pain and discomfort. It is a common symptom of COVID-19 and is believed to be caused by the body’s immune response to the virus.
- Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of COVID-19 and can also affect the musculoskeletal system. Prolonged periods of bed rest during recovery can lead to muscle weakness and decreased mobility.
- Joint pain: Joint pain has been reported in some COVID-19 patients. The cause is unclear, but it is thought to be related to the body’s immune response to the virus.
- Muscle weakness: COVID-19 patients may experience muscle weakness due to prolonged bed rest due to the virus’s effects on the muscles.
- Rhabdomyolysis: Rhabdomyolysis is a severe condition that can occur in COVID-19 patients. It causes breakdown of muscle tissue, which can lead to muscle pain, weakness, and potentially life-threatening complications.
- Osteoporosis: Some COVID-19 patients may experience decreased bone density and osteoporosis due to prolonged bed rest and decreased physical activity during recovery.
It is important to note that not all COVID-19 patients will experience musculoskeletal symptoms. However, for those who do, it is important to receive appropriate medical care and rehabilitation to promote recovery and prevent long-term complications.
(please note the following description has been generated using ChatGPT and reviewed for accuracy).
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Menachem M. Meller, call one of our convenient locations or visit us online.
Lower Bucks Hospital, Bristol, (215) 785-9818
Town Center Drive, Langhorne, (267) 789-2074