Effect of a Structured Tele Based Post COVID-19 Rehabilitation Program in the Indian Population

Introduction: The emergence of coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) and the imperative for social distancing have propelled telehealth to the forefront. Even after discharge, patients may experience lingering symptoms, termed post-COVID-19 syndrome, which impairs functioning. This syndrome persists beyond recovery from COVID-19. Hence, timely implementation and sustained access to pulmonary rehabilitation services are crucial for COVID-19 patients. This study aims to assess the impact of a structured telerehabilitation program on post-COVID-19 recovery in the Indian population. Methodology: A total of 53 patients, with their informed consent, were included in the study, comprising 71.7% males and 24.3% females, with a mean age of 57.15 years (SD = 11.74, range: 30-81 years). Upon enrollment, comprehensive assessments were conducted, incorporating the visual analog scale (VAS) score for fatigue, 1-minute sit-to-stand test, post-COVID-19 functional status scale, and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Treatment interventions were administered remotely via WhatsApp video or Zoom calls, consisting of pulmonary rehabilitation protocols encompassing warm-up exercises, breathing exercises, aerobic and strength training, yoga, cooldown exercises, and regular educational sessions tailored to individual patient needs. Results: There was a significant improvement in outcome measures: VAS score for fatigue (t = 8.6, S, p < 0.001), 1-minute sit-to-stand (steps: t = 5.9, S, p < 0.001), and health-related quality of life (Z = 5.9, S, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study shows that a structured tele-based program is not only effective in patients but also an approach that is feasible and should be considered for the delivery of rehabilitation to patients who are unable to participate in center-based rehabilitation.