The role of rehabilitation in Post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) recovery: An effectiveness study

This study aimed to measure the effectiveness of our rehabilitation program for patients with Post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) by comparing their symptoms before and after intervention.

A prospective cohort study was conducted with adults referred to a COVID clinic over 6 months. Participants (n = 48) were assessed at three timepoints and served as their own control, allowing comparison of symptom changes during a 6-week waiting period versus a 6-week rehabilitation period. The virtual group rehabilitation program, led by occupational therapy and physiotherapy, offered practical strategies, peer support and guidance to enhance daily function and quality of life.

Of 117 invited, 48 (41%) consented and completed baseline measures. After excluding incomplete data, 36 participants were included in the analysis. Unlike many PCS studies lacking comparators, this within-subject design strengthened the findings. No significant changes occurred during the waiting period, but significant improvements were seen post-intervention:C19-YRSm: 29 ± 1.7 (baseline), 28.3 ± 1.7 (week 6, p = 0.34), improving to 18.3 ± 1.9 (week 12, p < 0.001).MFIS: 54.1 ± 2.8 (baseline), 54.2 ± 2.6 (week 6, p = 0.18), improving to 36.8 ± 3.2 (week 12, p < 0.001).

A virtual MDT-led rehabilitation program significantly reduced PCS symptoms, supporting the value of structured rehabilitation in PCS recovery.