Evaluation of a multidisciplinary neurological rehabilitation program for the post-COVID-19 condition

To evaluate a multidisciplinary therapy program with a neurological focus for individuals with post-COVID-19 condition, aiming to reduce symptom burden and improve functioning.

Non-experimental prospective before-after study.

Individuals diagnosed with post-COVID-19 condition, defined as experiencing persistent signs and symptoms for more than 12 weeks after initial SARS-CoV-2 infection.

We conducted a 2 week multidisciplinary rehabilitation program at the Schoen Clinic Bad Aibling, Germany. The intervention included multi-professional therapies. Assessments were conducted at six time points: baseline at the start of the 2-week control period, pre- and post-intervention, and at 2, 8, and 24 weeks post-intervention. Mixed-effects regression models were used to analyze changes over time. Outcome measures included health-related quality of life (HRQoL; EQ-5D-5L), fatigue, anxiety, depression, symptom severity, breathing difficulties, cognitive function, functional disability, and performance measures.

A total of 47 participants (60% female; mean age 49 years; range 21-80) were enrolled, with a median of 220 days (Q1: 156-Q3: 376) since initial infection. No significant improvement in HRQoL, grip strength, cognitive function, walking capacity, or balance was observed during the intervention compared to the control period. Fatigue, anxiety, depression, symptom severity, functional disability, and dyspnea improved significantly.

This study indicates beneficial effects of a 2 week multidisciplinary therapy program on symptom burden and functional outcomes of the post-COVID-19 condition. Further research including randomized controlled trials is warranted.

German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00029415. Registered 04 July, 2022. Retrospectively registered. https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00029415.