Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2025
Home-Based Prescribed Pulmonary Exercise in Patients with Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Published on: August 24, 2019
Virtual pulmonary rehabilitation approaches in patients with post COVID syndrome: a pilot study
Antonio Sarmento1, Rachel Adodo1, Greg Hodges2
1Department of Respiratory Therapy, University of Manitoba, Room 334 - 771 McDermot Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0T6, Canada.
Background:
The characteristics of optimal virtual pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) for individuals with post-COVID syndrome (PCS) have not been identified. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, and satisfaction associated with a virtual PR program with the exercise component delivered through group or self-directed sessions.
Methods:
Adults with PCS-respiratory symptoms were randomly assigned to the video conference (PRVC) or self-directed (PRSD) group and completed an exercise program (aerobic, strengthening, and breathing exercises) three times/week for eight weeks. PRVC sessions were led by a physiotherapist via Zoom, whereas the PRSD group exercised individually following a pre-recorded video. Both groups received personalized exercise recommendations, education related to the condition, and a weekly follow up call. Satisfaction was assessed through a patient survey. Lung function, dyspnea, fatigue, sit-to-stand capacity, health-related quality of life, and participation were assessed pre- and post-PR.
Results:
Fourteen PCS individuals (49 ± 9 years, 86% females) completed 83% of the sessions. All participants were satisfied with information provided by the therapist and frequency of data submission, whereas most were satisfied with the frequency and duration of exercise sessions (88% in PRVC and 83% in PRSD). A higher proportion of participants in the PRVC (88%) were satisfied with the level of difficulty of exercises compared with the PRSD (67%), and 84% of the sample reported a positive impact of the program on their health. No adverse events were reported. Significant changes in sit-to-stand capacity (p = 0.012, Cohen's r = 0.67) and questions related to fatigue (p = 0.027, Cohen's r = 0.58), neurocognitive (p = 0.045, Cohen's r = 0.53), and autonomic (p = 0.024, Cohen's r = 0.60) domains of the DePaul Symptom Questionnaire short-form were also found between groups.
Conclusion:
Virtual PR with exercises delivered via video conference or pre-recorded video were feasible, safe, and well-received by individuals with PCS.
Trial Registration:
NCT05003271 (first posted: 12/08/2021).
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