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Perspectives of Individuals With Long COVID on Virtual Physical Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Study
Kriti Agarwal1, Catherine M Tansey2, Amanda K Rizk2
1School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada.
Objective:
Coronavirus disease 2019 is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, and long COVID is a chronic condition characterized by symptoms persisting for atleast 3 months after infection. To explore the perspectives of individuals with long COVID after an 8-week virtual physical rehabilitation program.
Design:
Qualitative descriptive study.
Setting:
Clinics and research cohorts.
Participants:
Adults (n=132) with confirmed or probable COVID-19 infection and persistent symptoms, including reduced mobility, muscle weakness, dyspnea, and/or fatigue, were recruited in a randomized controlled trial. Thirteen intervention group participants who completed the rehabilitation program were included in this qualitative study.
Interventions:
The intervention group (n=65) received 8 weeks of tailored, symptom-titrated exercises, weekly educational sessions, and usual care, whereas the control group (n=67) received only usual care.
Main Outcome Measures:
Semistructured videoconference interviews were conducted and analyzed using deductive thematic analysis.
Results:
Participants' age (mean ± SD) was 48.3±15.6 years, 6 had been hospitalized during their COVID-19 infection, and the duration of long COVID (mean ± SD) was 18.8±7.2 months. Four themes were identified: (1) Motivation and confidence: most participants expressed confidence in joining the program, motivated by health goals, scientific contribution, and reassurance from professional support. (2) Program features: the program was praised for its well-organized format, ideal duration, convenient scheduling, supportive kinesiologists, and individualized exercise plans. (3) Health effects: while most reported physical and emotional improvements (eg, increased energy, mobility, and confidence), some noted challenges upon returning to work. (4) Post-program suggestions: participants intended to continue exercising but faced barriers such as fatigue and a lack of motivation, highlighting the need for continued support and resources to maintain progress.
Conclusions:
This study highlights the positive effects and relevant challenges associated with completing an 8-week personalized, symptom-titrated virtual physical rehabilitation program for individuals with long COVID, emphasizing the need for tailored support and ongoing resources to facilitate sustained recovery.
