Physiotherapy interventions in post- and long-COVID-19: a scoping review protocol

Area of Science:

• Medical Rehabilitation
• Pulmonology
• Neurology

Background:

• Post-COVID-19 conditions present diverse symptoms impacting daily function, including myalgia, fatigue, and respiratory issues.
• Physiotherapy is a recognized intervention for managing these persistent symptoms.
• A focused review on hands-on therapy for long COVID is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map and synthesize the existing scientific evidence on hands-on physiotherapy interventions for post-COVID-19 conditions.
• To identify treatment parameters and outcomes reported in the literature for direct patient interaction.
• To inform clinical practice and future research in physiotherapy for long COVID.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology.
• Literature search across major databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, etc.).
• Inclusion of studies on physiotherapy interventions with direct patient contact, excluding telemedicine and home-based programs.

Main Results:

• The review will detail demographic characteristics, definitions of long COVID, intervention descriptions, and treatment parameters.
• Analysis of reported treatment outcomes for hands-on physiotherapy interventions.
• Identification of gaps in the current evidence base.

Conclusions:

• Physiotherapy, particularly hands-on approaches, shows potential in managing long COVID symptoms.
• Further research is needed to establish standardized and effective treatment protocols.
• This review provides a foundation for evidence-based physiotherapy in long COVID rehabilitation.