COVID-19 continues to affect our lives and the lives of our children and teens. Thankfully, in children, the illness typically continues to be mild, without long term complications. One very rare complication of the COVID-19 virus is myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle). Though this only occurs in 0.5% to 3% of the pediatric population after a COVID-19 illness, it is still important not to miss. Most of the children diagnosed with myocarditis were either asymptomatic or mildly ill. For these reasons, it is important to do a physical exam in office where we can assess the heart and discuss possible symptoms of heart complications before returning to sports participation after COVID-19 illness.
If any symptoms occur, stop exercise immediately and call our office
4. Follow a gradual return-to-play exercise progression
Day 1 and Day 2 – (2 Days Minimum) – 15 minutes or less: Light activity (walking, jogging, stationary bike), intensity no greater than 70% of maximum heart rate. NO resistance training.
Day 3 – (1 Day Minimum) – 30 minutes or less: Add simple movement activities (eg. running drills) – intensity no greater than 80% of maximum heart rate.
Day 4 – (1 Day Minimum) – 45 minutes or less- Progress to more complex training – intensity no greater than 80% maximum heart rate. May add light resistance training.
Day 5 and Day 6 – (2 Days Minimum) – 60 minutes – Normal training activity – intensity no greater than 80% maximum heart rate.
Day 7 – Return to full activity/participation
