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Lung Treatment

"Pressure Rehabilitation": A Beacon of Hope for Post-COVID-19 Lung Dysfunction

Several years have passed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, yet its effects continue to afflict millions of people around the world. Among the most serious concerns is "Long COVID"—the persistent symptoms that remain long after the acute infection has resolved. In particular, respiratory complications such as decreased lung function and interstitial pneumonia have significantly impaired patients' quality of life (QOL), making even routine activities extremely difficult.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 10–20% of individuals who contract COVID-19 experience long-term symptoms. While it is difficult to determine the exact number of cases involving impaired lung function, it is estimated that tens of millions suffer from symptoms such as shortness of breath and chronic fatigue. Many patients are dependent on supplemental oxygen and find that even minimal physical exertion can cause their blood oxygen saturation to drop below 90%. This condition brings not only physical suffering but also a heavy psychological burden—many are forced to confront the painful reality of struggling to breathe on a daily basis.

At present, there is unfortunately no established treatment for lung dysfunction caused by Long COVID. Existing approaches are largely palliative, and fundamental recovery has been considered difficult. However, a ray of hope is beginning to emerge from this seemingly hopeless situation.

A New Treatment Developed by a Japanese Medical Doctor: Pressure Rehabilitation (Kaatsu Rehabilitation)
Dr. Kenichi Odagiri, a Japanese medical doctor, has developed an innovative treatment method based on years of research and clinical practice. This approach targets post-COVID lung dysfunction and is known as Pressure Rehabilitation, or Kaatsu Rehabilitation.

Kaatsu Rehabilitation involves applying specialized pressure bands to the upper arms or thighs to partially restrict blood flow during exercise. This method allows even low-intensity workouts to yield effects similar to those of high-intensity training. Dr. Odagiri has clinically confirmed that this form of rehabilitation can be effective in improving lung function in patients suffering from post-COVID respiratory issues.