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Dalichau S, Kordy H, Klüver J, Brinkmeier W, Rathmann N, Yorke L, Kleefmann J, Möller T. [The Significance of Chronic Fatigue in the Post-Covid Consultation and its Consequences for Outpatient Rehabilitation in the Context of Statutory Accident Insurance]. Psychother Psychosom Med Psychol 2024; 74:265-275. [PMID: 38492566 DOI: 10.1055/a-2266-3441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The post-COVID consultation (PCC) is offered as part of a comprehensive range of treatment services provided by the statutory accident insurance for post-COVID patients to determine individual recommendations for further care. The aim of the study was to record the main symptoms and the associated restrictions on social and occupational participation in order to derive consequences for outpatient rehabilitation. METHOD In addition to a medical examination and a psychological consil, numerous assessments were carried out to evaluate the biopsychosocial state of health. 373 female (82.2%) and 81 male patients aged between 40 and 60 years from the professions of health and care services, education and pedagogy participated in the PCC since April 2021. RESULTS Nearly all patients (98.2%) reported fatigue as a cardinal symptom of their post-COVID complaints, in combination with subjectively experienced limitations in brain functioning in over 73% of cases. The duration of the symptomatology persisted for an average of 14-15 months in both female and male insured persons. Thus, over 85% of the total sample can be classified as cases of chronic fatigue (Fatigue Scale). The severity of fatigue also proportionally affects quality of life (SF-36), feelings of anxiety and depression (HADS), psychological resilience (RS-13), and motor parameters such as maximum grip strength and endurance capacity. 54.3% of the patients also received a suspected mental diagnosis and 38.1% a recommendation for further neuropsychological diagnostics. CONCLUSION For further treatment of the leading symptom of chronic fatigue, a multimodal and interdisciplinary outpatient rehabilitation is recommended, which should be oriented towards the treatment of the diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and thus in particular towards a psychoeducational and rather than a curative therapeutic approach, and should consider aftercare strategies. Confirmed mental disorders and neuropsychological deficits are to be treated in addition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Dalichau
- Rehabilitation und Versorgungsforschung, BG Ambulanz Bremen, Bremen
| | - Henrike Kordy
- Abteilung Psychologische Psychotherapie, BG Ambulanz Bremen, Bremen
| | - Janna Klüver
- Abteilung Sporttherapie, BG Ambulanz Bremen, Bremen
| | | | - Nadine Rathmann
- Abteilung Gesundheitswissenschaften, BG Ambulanz Bremen, Bremen
| | - Lacy Yorke
- Abteilung Gesundheitswissenschaften, BG Ambulanz Bremen, Bremen
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Dalko K, Elsuson HA, Kalter I, Zilezinski M, Hofstetter S, Stoevesandt D, Paulicke D, Jahn P. Virtual Reality Applications for the Implementation of Domestic Respiratory Rehabilitation Programs for Patients With Long COVID and Post-COVID Condition: Scoping Review. JMIR Serious Games 2024; 12:e52309. [PMID: 38819890 PMCID: PMC11179016 DOI: 10.2196/52309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to a high number of patients affected by long COVID or post-COVID condition, an essential step to address the long-term effects of COVID-19 lies in the development and implementation of flexible and accessible rehabilitation programs. Virtual reality (VR) technologies offer the potential to support traditional therapies with individualized at-home programs. OBJECTIVE This study aims to provide an overview of existing scientific evidence on the development and implementation of VR-assisted respiratory rehabilitation programs for patients with long COVID and post-COVID condition and to synthesize the results. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of studies from 6 databases. PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Web of Science Social Sciences Citation Index, and PEDro were searched using an exploratory search strategy. The search, which was last updated in February 2024, included peer-reviewed studies on immersive VR applications providing respiratory rehabilitation programs for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and long COVID or post-COVID condition. Exclusion criteria were studies in clinical or inpatient settings, telemedicine, nonimmersive VR applications, and gray literature. Nine publications were included in this review. Findings were extracted and summarized from the studies according to the JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute) method and thematically categorized. Topics covered were study characteristics, physiotherapeutic concept, clinical parameters, as well as usability and acceptability. RESULTS The 9 publications included in the qualitative analysis were published in 2019-2023. Eight empirical studies were included: 4 followed a mixed methods design, 3 were qualitative studies, and 1 followed a quantitative method. One scoping review was included in the data analyses. Four of the included studies were on patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The 9 studies demonstrated that VR-supported respiratory rehabilitation programs result in positive initial outcomes in terms of physical as well as psychological parameters. Particularly noteworthy was the increased motivation and compliance of patients. However, adverse effects and lack of usability are the barriers to the implementation of this innovative approach. CONCLUSIONS Overall, VR is a promising technology for the implementation of individualized and flexible respiratory rehabilitation programs for patients with long COVID and post-COVID condition. Nevertheless, corresponding approaches are still under development and need to be more closely adapted to the needs of users. Further, the evidence was limited to pilot studies or a small number of patients, and no randomized controlled trials or long-term studies were part of the study selection. The included studies were performed by 4 groups of researchers: 3 from Europe and 1 from the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Dalko
- Dorothea Erxleben Lernzentrum, Medical Faculty Halle, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | | - Ivonne Kalter
- Health Service Research Working Group, Acute Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medicine Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Max Zilezinski
- Institute for Clinical Nursing Science, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Hofstetter
- Dorothea Erxleben Lernzentrum, Medical Faculty Halle, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Health Service Research Working Group, Acute Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medicine Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Dietrich Stoevesandt
- Dorothea Erxleben Lernzentrum, Medical Faculty Halle, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Denny Paulicke
- Health Service Research Working Group, Acute Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medicine Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Department of Medical Education, Akkon University of Human Sciences, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patrick Jahn
- Health Service Research Working Group, Acute Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medicine Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
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Carpallo-Porcar B, Calvo S, Alamillo-Salas J, Herrero P, Gómez-Barrera M, Jiménez-Sánchez C. An Opportunity for Management of Fatigue, Physical Condition, and Quality of Life Through Asynchronous Telerehabilitation in Patients After Acute Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2024:S0003-9993(24)00986-9. [PMID: 38710426 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2024.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the preliminary efficacy of asynchronous telerehabilitation in patients after acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on fatigue, physical condition, quality of life, and feasibility of this pilot study with that of a booklet format. DESIGN Randomized pilot study with 2 intervention arms: asynchronous telerehabilitation group and booklet-based rehabilitation group, with 2 follow-ups at 3 and 6 months. SETTING Hospital. PARTICIPANTS Patients discharged after COVID-19 were recruited and evaluated (N=35). INTERVENTIONS The intervention consisted of a 12-week multimodal rehabilitation program via telerehabilitation or by a booklet. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Fatigue as the main outcome and functional status, quality of life, and feasibility as secondary outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS After the intervention, there was no significant difference between groups in fatigue, but there were significant differences in favor of the asynchronous telerehabilitation group for the 6-Minute Walk Test (p=.008), the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (p=.019), and physical quality of life (p=.035). These improvements were maintained throughout the 6-month follow-up. Telerehabilitation was shown to be a viable option, without incidents and with a higher adhesion (p=.028) than the booklet format. CONCLUSIONS A multimodal rehabilitation program by means of asynchronous telerehabilitation appears as a more effective option than traditional formats in improving post-acute COVID-19 sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Carpallo-Porcar
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, Villanueva de Gállego, Zaragoza, Spain; IIS Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sandra Calvo
- IIS Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain; Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | | | - Pablo Herrero
- IIS Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain; Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Manuel Gómez-Barrera
- Departament of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, Villanueva de Gállego, Zaragoza, Spain; Pharmacoeconomics & Outcomes Iberia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Jiménez-Sánchez
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, Villanueva de Gállego, Zaragoza, Spain; IIS Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain
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4
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Palacios-Ceña D, Bautista-Villaécija O, Güeita-Rodríguez J, García-Bravo C, Pérez-Corrales J, Del Corral T, López-de-Uralde-Villanueva I, Fabero-Garrido R, Plaza-Manzano G. Supervised Telerehabilitation and Home-Based Respiratory Muscle Training for Post-COVID-19 Condition Symptoms: A Nested Qualitative Study Exploring the Perspectives of Participants in a Randomized Controlled Trial. Phys Ther 2024; 104:pzae043. [PMID: 38507659 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzae043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of individuals with post-coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) condition symptoms who underwent a supervised telerehabilitation and home-based respiratory muscle training (TSHB-RMT) program. METHODS A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Participants were recruited using purposeful sampling. The inclusion criteria consisted of: patients aged over 18 years who presented persistent COVID-19 symptoms of fatigue and dyspnea for at least 3 months after the COVID-19 diagnosis. In total, 28 patients were included. In-depth interviews and researcher field notes were used to collect the data. A thematic analysis was performed. RESULTS Three themes reflect the patients' perspective on the TSHB-RMT before the program (reasons for participating), during the treatment program, and upon completion of the study. Among the reasons for participation, participants highlighted the absence of improvement and treatment, and feeling abandoned and forgotten by the health system. The treatment required discipline on behalf of the patients. Mondays and Tuesdays were the most difficult days for performing the therapy, and the physical therapist was perceived as a tool for adherence, change, and a source of validated information. The patients perceived positive effects quite soon; however, it was necessary to extend the follow-up after completing the program because they abandoned the program due to the lack of guidance for exercise supervision. CONCLUSION This study described relevant aspects that physical therapist professionals should consider when providing TSHB-RMT treatment. IMPACT TSHB-RMT requires discipline, perseverance, effort, and a commitment to the group. The physical therapist is perceived as the tool that facilitates adherence and participation. The effects are rapidly perceived, leading to improved self-confidence and autonomy; however, it is necessary to increase the follow-up time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domingo Palacios-Ceña
- Research Group of Humanities and Qualitative Research in Health Science of Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (Hum&QRinHS), Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid (Alcorcón), Spain
| | - Oscar Bautista-Villaécija
- Nursing Department, Sant Joan de Deus, Universitat de Barcelona, Generalitat de Cataluña (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Javier Güeita-Rodríguez
- Research Group of Humanities and Qualitative Research in Health Science of Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (Hum&QRinHS), Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid (Alcorcón), Spain
| | - Cristina García-Bravo
- Research Group of Humanities and Qualitative Research in Health Science of Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (Hum&QRinHS), Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid (Alcorcón), Spain
| | - Jorge Pérez-Corrales
- Research Group of Humanities and Qualitative Research in Health Science of Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (Hum&QRinHS), Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid (Alcorcón), Spain
| | - Tamara Del Corral
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ibai López-de-Uralde-Villanueva
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raúl Fabero-Garrido
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
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Martínez-Pozas O, Meléndez-Oliva E, Rolando LM, Rico JAQ, Corbellini C, Sánchez Romero EA. The pulmonary rehabilitation effect on long covid-19 syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PHYSIOTHERAPY RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 29:e2077. [PMID: 38389299 DOI: 10.1002/pri.2077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in improving dyspnea, fatigue, physical activity, quality of life, anxiety and depression in patients with Long COVID-19 (LC). The impact of PR on LC and a comparison of face-to-face and telerehabilitation approaches was explored. METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO. A literature search included PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library until January 2023. No language filters were applied. Randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled trials, and observational studies were included. The risk of bias was assessed using appropriate tools. Descriptive analysis and meta-analysis were performed. Forest plots presented results. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Metafor Package in R v.3.4.2. RESULTS/FINDINGS This systematic review and meta-analysis included 16 studies on PR in LC patients. A total of 1027 adults were included. The studies varied in design, with seven observational studies, three quasi-experimental studies, and six randomized controlled trials. Dyspnea, physical function, quality of life, psychological state, and fatigue were assessed as outcomes. The review found that pulmonary rehabilitation had a significant positive effect on dyspnea, physical function, quality of life (both global and physical domain), anxiety, and depression. However, the effect on fatigue was not significant. Heterogeneity was observed in some analyses, and publication bias was found in certain outcomes. Age and study design were identified as potential moderators. Both face-to-face and telerehabilitation interventions improved the studied outcomes, with only differences in the physical domain of quality of life favoring the face-to-face group. IMPLICATIONS ON PHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE PR improved dyspnea, physical function, quality of life, and psychological state in LC patients, but not fatigue. Face-to-face and telerehabilitation have similar effects, except for physical quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Martínez-Pozas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
- Interdisciplinary Research Group on Musculoskeletal Disorders, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
- Physiotherapy and Orofacial Pain Working Group, Sociedad Española de Disfunción Craneomandibular y Dolor Orofacial (SEDCYDO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Erika Meléndez-Oliva
- Interdisciplinary Research Group on Musculoskeletal Disorders, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
- Physiotherapy and Orofacial Pain Working Group, Sociedad Española de Disfunción Craneomandibular y Dolor Orofacial (SEDCYDO), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Sport Sciences, European University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - José Antonio Quesada Rico
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Miguel Hernández University, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Tenerife, Spain
| | - Camilo Corbellini
- Department of Physiotherapy, LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg
- Luxembourg Health & Sport Sciences Research Institute A.S.B.L., Differdange, Luxembourg
| | - Eleuterio A Sánchez Romero
- Interdisciplinary Research Group on Musculoskeletal Disorders, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
- Physiotherapy and Orofacial Pain Working Group, Sociedad Española de Disfunción Craneomandibular y Dolor Orofacial (SEDCYDO), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
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Harrison M, Rhodes T, Lancaster K. Constitution of Long COVID illness, patienthood and recovery: a critical synthesis of qualitative studies. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e083340. [PMID: 38548364 PMCID: PMC10982801 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-083340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the lived experiences of Long COVID. DESIGN Critical interpretive synthesis of qualitative research. DATA SOURCES PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched on 14 September 2023. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Original peer-reviewed qualitative studies describing the experiences of Long COVID were eligible for inclusion. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS We used established qualitative synthesis methods to search, screen and manually code the included studies. Critical interpretation methods were used to analyse the data and develop synthetic constructs. RESULTS 68 articles were identified in the first phase of sampling, with 16 studies and 879 participants included in the final synthesis. The analysis of these studies was organised into three thematic constructions of Long COVID: (1) the illness, (2) the patient and (3) recovery. Long COVID was diversely characterised across study approaches, designs and findings but was underpinned by shared diagnostic logics, which shaped the identification and measurement of symptoms. The boundaries between different constitutions of Long COVID in qualitative accounts of illness experience were often imprecise. Slippages between different definitions of Long COVID had implications for patient experiences in relation to diagnosis, help-seeking and care, and expectations of recovery. CONCLUSIONS Long COVID is a site of multiple and diverse qualitative interpretation. Accounts of lived experience emphasise the constitutions of illness, patienthood and recovery as situated and emergent. The ongoing context-based negotiation of Long COVID is a defining qualitative feature of the condition. Approaches to researching, diagnosing and developing health interventions must be as adaptive as the varieties of Long COVID lived experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Harrison
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tim Rhodes
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kari Lancaster
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK
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Barnhill J, Chilcoat A, Kavalakatt B, Mata R, Tiedt M, Roth I. Different but the Same: Common Themes in Illness Experience Among People With Diverse Long COVID Symptoms and the Potential Benefits of Virtual Group Medical Visits. J Patient Exp 2024; 11:23743735241230144. [PMID: 38357361 PMCID: PMC10865942 DOI: 10.1177/23743735241230144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is poorly understood, widespread and debilitating. Integrative medical group visits (IMGVs) provide group medical care virtually or in person and are reimbursed by insurance payors. IMGV introduces integrative modalities such as mindfulness, nutrition, and acupressure in a person-centered, supportive, and educational environment. To evaluate a telehealth IMGV program called Nourish to Flourish (N2F) for patients with long COVID, three researchers conducted a qualitative analysis of pre- and post-group individual interviews. Twenty-five patients provided interviews, of which fifteen included pre- and post-group individual interviews. Main themes were unpredictable symptom patterns, a common range of emotions associated with long COVID experience, reconceptualizing self-identity, multiple barriers to care in conventional settings, and connections formed in N2F. Although symptoms varied, N2F participants found commonalities in their experiences of living with long COVID. They empathized with one another regarding changing symptoms, inconsistent social support, shifting identities, and barriers to effective medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Barnhill
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Aisha Chilcoat
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Raveena Mata
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Malik Tiedt
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Isabel Roth
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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8
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Estebanez-Pérez MJ, Pastora-Bernal JM, Vinolo-Gil MJ, Pastora-Estebanez P, Martín-Valero R. Digital physiotherapy is a satisfactory and effective method to improve the quality of life in Long COVID patients. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241234432. [PMID: 38414563 PMCID: PMC10898309 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241234432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This research aimed to explore Long COVID patient's quality of life, satisfaction and perception with an individualized and customizable digital physiotherapy intervention during a 4-week period. Methods A pre-post clinical trial was conducted with 32 Long COVID patients. Quality of life was assessed using the 12-Item Short Form Survey and the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions questionnaire (EuroQol-5D), while satisfaction and perception were measured using the Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire. Optional open-ended questions were added as qualitative approach. A mixed design method was conducted. Results After intervention, a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) was observed in quality of life. The SF-12 questionnaire showed an increase of 4.04 points in the physical component and 6.55 points in the mental component with a small/medium effect size. The EuroQoL-5D questionnaire demonstrated a medium effect size with an increase of 0.87 points. Patient perception indicated high rates of satisfaction and values above the minimal clinically important difference. The qualitative approach revealed several interesting findings. Conclusion Participants found the digital intervention satisfactory and effective in improving their quality of life. Suggestions for improvement, such as the inclusion of face-to-face sessions, a chat for immediate contact, sound in breath exercises in the digital program, longer duration and continuity of intervention, were mentioned. Larger sample studies and in-deep qualitative methodologies are needed to draw extrapolable conclusions. Trial registration NCT04742946.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - María-Jesús Vinolo-Gil
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cadiz, Cadiz, Spain
| | - Pablo Pastora-Estebanez
- Department of Economy, Faculty of Economic and Business Sciences, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Rocío Martín-Valero
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Malaga, Málaga, Spain
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9
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Derksen C, Rinn R, Gao L, Dahmen A, Cordes C, Kolb C, Becker P, Lippke S. Longitudinal Evaluation of an Integrated Post-COVID-19/Long COVID Management Program Consisting of Digital Interventions and Personal Support: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e49342. [PMID: 37792437 PMCID: PMC10563866 DOI: 10.2196/49342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The postacute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS) can be addressed with multidisciplinary approaches, including professional support and digital interventions. OBJECTIVE This research aimed to test whether patients who received a health care facilitation program including medical internet support from human personal pilots and digital interventions (intervention group [IG] and active control group [ACG]) would experience fewer symptoms and have higher work ability and social participation than an untreated comparison group (CompG). The second objective was to compare the impact of a diagnostic assessment and digital interventions tailored to patients' personal capacity (IG) with that of only personal support and digital interventions targeting the main symptoms (ACG). METHODS In total, 1020 patients with PACS were recruited. Using a randomized controlled trial design between the IG and the ACG, as well as propensity score matching to include the CompG, analyses were run with logistic regression and hierarchical-linear models. RESULTS Symptoms decreased significantly in all groups over time (βT1-T2=0.13, t549=5.67, P<.001; βT2-T4=0.06, t549=2.83, P=.01), with a main effect of the group (β=-.15, t549=-2.65, P=.01) and a more pronounced effect in the IG and ACG compared to the CompG (between groups: βT1-T2=0.14, t549=4.31, P<.001; βT2-T4=0.14, t549=4.57, P<.001). Work ability and social participation were lower in the CompG, but there was no significant interaction effect. There were no group differences between the IG and the ACG. CONCLUSIONS Empowerment through personal pilots and digital interventions reduces symptoms but does not increase work ability and social participation. More longitudinal research is needed to evaluate the effects of a diagnostic assessment. Social support and digital interventions should be incorporated to facilitate health care interventions for PACS. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05238415; https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05238415. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s12879-022-07584-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Derksen
- Health Psychology and Behavioural Medicine, Constructor University Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin Rinn
- Health Psychology and Behavioural Medicine, Constructor University Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Lingling Gao
- Health Psychology and Behavioural Medicine, Constructor University Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Alina Dahmen
- Health Psychology and Behavioural Medicine, Constructor University Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Cay Cordes
- Dr. Becker Kiliani-Klinik, Dr. Becker Klinikgruppe, Bad Windsheim, Germany
| | | | | | - Sonia Lippke
- Health Psychology and Behavioural Medicine, Constructor University Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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León-Herrera S, Magallón-Botaya R, Oliván-Blázquez B, Sagarra-Romero L, Jaurrieta CM, Méndez-López F. Online multimodal rehabilitation programme to improve symptoms and quality of life for adults diagnosed with long COVID-19: a Randomised Clinical Trial protocol. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1222888. [PMID: 37744502 PMCID: PMC10513419 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1222888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Long COVID is a multisystemic condition which affects quality of life and implies a multidisciplinary treatment approach. There is still limited evidence on management techniques for this syndrome. "Telerehabilitation" could be an important tool when addressing the symptoms of this patients with the aim of increasing their quality of life. The purpose of this trial is to analyse the effectiveness of an online multimodal rehabilitation programme to improve the symptomatology of people with long COVID and their quality of life. Methods A pragmatic randomised controlled trial will be performed with two parallel groups: (1) usual treatment by the primary care practitioner (Treatment as usual, TAU; control group) and (2) TAU plus the use of an online multimodal rehabilitation programme, including videoconferences and content published on a Moodle platform (intervention group). The data will be collected before and after the intervention. A follow-up will take place 3 months later. Discussion There is still a lack of knowledge regarding the management of the symptoms of long COVID. This creates the need to add scientific evidence about the care of this disease, considering that multidisciplinary social and health teams can offer the necessary care so that these patients can recover their previous quality of life.Clinical trial registration: The protocol for this study was registered with the ISRCTN Registry [registration number: ISRCTN15414370] on 28 December 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra León-Herrera
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosa Magallón-Botaya
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Bárbara Oliván-Blázquez
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Lucía Sagarra-Romero
- GAIAS Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Zaragoza, Spain
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Kirchberger I, Meisinger C, Warm TD, Hyhlik-Dürr A, Linseisen J, Goßlau Y. Post-COVID-19 Syndrome in Non-Hospitalized Individuals: Healthcare Situation 2 Years after SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Viruses 2023; 15:1326. [PMID: 37376625 DOI: 10.3390/v15061326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although "post-COVID-19 syndrome" (PCS) is reported to be common even in non-hospitalized individuals, long-term information on symptom burden, healthcare needs, utilization, and satisfaction with healthcare is scarce. The objectives of this study were to describe symptom burden, healthcare utilization and experiences with the healthcare offered for PCS in a German sample of non-hospitalized persons 2 years after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Individuals with past COVID-19 confirmed by positive polymerase chain reaction testing were examined at the University Hospital of Augsburg from 4 November 2020 to 26 May 2021 and completed a postal questionnaire between 14 June 2022 and 1 November 2022. Participants who self-reported the presence of fatigue, dyspnea on exertion, memory problems or concentration problems were classified as having PCS. Of the 304 non-hospitalized participants (58.2% female, median age 53.5), 210 (69.1%) had a PCS. Among these, 18.8% had slight to moderate functional limitations. Participants with PCS showed a significantly higher utilization of healthcare and a large proportion complained about lacking information on persistent COVID-19 symptoms and problems finding competent healthcare providers. The results indicate the need to optimize patient information on PCS, facilitate access to specialized healthcare providers, provide treatment options in the primary care setting and improve the education of healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Kirchberger
- Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, 86156 Augsburg, Germany
| | - Christine Meisinger
- Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, 86156 Augsburg, Germany
| | - Tobias D Warm
- Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, 86156 Augsburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Hyhlik-Dürr
- Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, 86156 Augsburg, Germany
| | - Jakob Linseisen
- Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, 86156 Augsburg, Germany
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology-IBE, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Yvonne Goßlau
- Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, 86156 Augsburg, Germany
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