The secret behind our PEDAL™ system (written 07/14/2024) 

When we first talk to people about our approach to Long Covid symptom management, PEDAL™(Pacing - Exercise/Activity - Diet/Nutrition - Align the Nervous System - Loosening), we often get the feedback that "this is already what I'm doing". However, once we explain it further, it turns out no one we have spoken to is following the approach in the way the evidence suggests is most effective, or including important elements like Aligning the Nervous System. Those missing elements are likely one of the reasons they are still struggling with health issues or not seeing the improvement they are eager to find. To help, we wanted to share a little more about what PEDAL™ means, what it looks like in the context of our program, and how it accelerates Long COVID recovery. 

We want to keep this week’s notes short, but encourage you to read the full blog article, where we delve deeper into each Pillar and explain why they are more impactful on recovery when used together.

P - The spectrum of Pacing

Pacing is often misunderstood as simply taking breaks when someone feels tired. Our approach to Pacing involves a comprehensive strategy that balances activity and rest, ensuring sustainable energy levels throughout the day, while also developing stamina and ability.

E - The Role of Exercise and Activity

When we talk about exercise in the context of Long COVID, we mean any physical activity that promotes recovery and strength. This can range from gentle activated stretches or slow walking to more structured exercise routines. It all depends on your starting place and what is right for you! 

D - Rethinking Diet and Nutrition

Katie thought she was eating in a reasonably healthy way until Andrea helped her make important adjustments. Through building our program, Katie learned that what is commonly considered “healthy food" might not be optimal for everyone, especially those with Long COVID. Our dietary recommendations are tailored to support immune function, reduce inflammation, and provide sustained energy. They are simple to follow, with clear guidelines and flexibility to make them your own. In this way, they work for you and your family. 

A - Aligning the Nervous System

Nervous system alignment is an often overlooked but crucial part of recovery. It involves practices that help regulate the autonomic nervous system, which can become dysregulated with Long COVID. Gentle and specific movements can help you feel better and support recovery.  

L - The Importance of Loosening

In our context, loosening refers to releasing physical tension as a tool to release tension in the nervous system and limit stress. Specific activated stretches that reach fascia and connective tissue are one example and key in this context to supporting the body's natural recovery processes.

The Synergy of PEDAL™

Each of these pillars is powerful on its own, but their true potential is unlocked when they are used together. The PEDAL™ approach is designed to support Long COVID symptom management and building back resilience by comprehensively addressing elements in the body, brain, and brain-body connections that impact symptoms.

If you have more questions, please feel free to reach out. We want to help people understand the options they have to help them feel better, and how the PEDAL™ approach works. This way, everyone can understand whether they are doing the things that will help them feel better. If you are curious to learn more, please feel free to reach out. We would be happy to discuss more about our structured approach and how elements of PEDAL™ work as an integrated system to support improvement.

We hope this week's blog post, A Deep Dive into the PEDAL™ Approach for Long COVID Symptom Management, provides valuable insights into our approach and encourages you to explore the full potential of PEDAL™ in your recovery journey.

Warmly,  
Katie & Andrea

PS. The PEDAL™ approach is more than eating healthy, exercising, and stretching. Each pillar is evidence-based and designed to support improvement and symptom management. The 5 pillars are even more powerful when used as a system. Our goal is to help those impacted by COVID find practical tools to accelerate their recovery. Read more about it in our latest blog post: A Deep Dive into the PEDAL™ Approach for Long COVID Symptom Management.