Midterm functional sequelae and implications in rehabilitation after COVID-19: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Medical rehabilitation
• Pulmonology
• Gerontology

Background:

• COVID-19 research has primarily focused on acute and subacute phases.
• Mid-term sequelae of COVID-19 remain largely understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the physical performance of COVID-19 survivors between 3 to 6 months post-hospital discharge.
• To identify potential long-term functional deficits in recovered patients.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving 204 COVID-19 survivors previously hospitalized.
• Utilized the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) test to assess lower limb function.
• Cardiorespiratory fitness evaluated using the 2-minute walking test (2MWT) or 1-minute sit-to-stand test (1MSTST) based on SPPB results.

Main Results:

• 32% of patients exhibited impaired physical performance 3-6 months after discharge.
• Significant associations were found between intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, and physical impairment.
• Walking ability correlated with the number of comorbidities.

Conclusions:

• A notable percentage of COVID-19 survivors experience residual physical and functional deficits at mid-term follow-up.
• The findings suggest a significant future burden of disability, underscoring the necessity for structured clinical rehabilitation programs.