RESUMEN
Monitoring the SaO2 levels and other respiratory function parameters after recovering from COVID-19 can have essential meaning in the assessment of the efficacy of using physiotherapy methods, including classical massage. Purpose of the research was to assess the influence of an individual classical back massage session as well as the effects of an entire 8-session back massage therapy on SaO2, HR and spirometry parameters in a patient after recovering from COVID-19, with constant monitoring of massage areas' temperature changes. Data and methods. The study comprised a case study of a patient who recovered from COVID-19. The patient was subjected to a classical back and spine massage therapy utilising all the basic techniques. The design was based on the results of the following tests: lung x-ray, SaO2, HR, spirometry parameters, and the 6-minute walking distance test. The degree of the influence of the classical massage techniques was monitored using the infrared thermography. Results. Continuous oxygen saturation monitoring during the massage sessions enabled to observe a decrease in the level of this parameter during utilisation of rubbing and tapotement on muscles of both the right and the left side of the back. During the usage of the intense massage techniques SaO2 dropped maximally to 92-93%. Such decrease was noted after massaging the right as well as the left side of the back, during every massage session. I addition it was found that in the case of the patient who recovered from COVID-19 changing the body position from sitting down to lying down after the massage session the level of tissues saturation decreased. The observed changes in the VA/Q ratio that occurred in response to the 8-session massage therapy lasting for 3 weeks might indicate that better conditions for ventilation and oxygen perfusion at the alveolar surface were reached. This translated in the patient who recovered from COVID-19 into 2% increase in oxygen saturation level after completing the massage therapy. Conclusion. Utilising the intense rubbing and tapotement techniques has to be carefully considered due to their significant influence on decrease in the level of saturation.