Physical Function and Association with Cognitive Function in Patients in a Post-COVID-19 Clinic-A Cross-Sectional...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Long-term sequelae of COVID-19 (post-COVID-19 condition) present with both physical and cognitive symptoms.
• Uncertainty exists regarding the prevalence of physical impairment and its relationship with cognitive function in these patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of physical impairment in patients with post-COVID-19 condition.
• To investigate the association between physical and cognitive function in this population.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 292 patients assessed ≥ 3 months post-infection.
• Physical function assessed via 6-Minute Walk Test, 30 s Sit-to-Stand Test, and handgrip strength.
• Cognitive function evaluated using the Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry and Trail Making Test-Part B.

Main Results:

• Prevalence of physical impairment ranged from 23% (exercise capacity) to 59% (lower extremity muscle strength).
• Hospitalization status did not significantly alter the risk of physical impairment.
• A weak to moderate association was found between physical and cognitive function, with cognitive scores predicting physical outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Physical impairments are highly prevalent in post-COVID-19 condition patients, irrespective of hospitalization history.
• These physical deficits are associated with increased cognitive dysfunction, underscoring the interconnectedness of physical and cognitive health in long COVID.