Author |
DOI |
Year |
Country |
Experimental Dates |
Aim of the study |
Study Design |
Type of rehabilitation service |
Research Question |
LFRI |
Covid Phases |
Population |
N° of participants |
Clinical presentation |
Intervention |
Comparator |
Outcomes |
Adverse events |
Diagnostic test |
Sensitivity |
Specificity |
Types of validity |
Attributes of reliability |
Main findings |
Abodonya AM et al. |
10.1097/MD.0000000000025339
|
2021 |
Saudi Arabia |
N/A |
To assess the efficacy of IMT on COVID-19 following mechanical ventilation. |
Pilot controlled trial |
Rehabilitation in acute care |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Acute |
COVID-19 |
42 |
N/A |
2-week IMT |
No treatment |
FVC%, FEV1%, DSI, 6-MWT, EQ-5D-3L. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
In this study patients were recruited after weaning from intubation. Half of the patients (21) were
allocated in the IMT group, and half in the control group. The two groups were not different at baseline
regarding their clinical characteristics. Patients that received a 2-weeks IMT program showed, at the 2
weeks time point, an improvement in pulmonary functions (FVC%, FEV1), dyspnea (DSI), functional
performance (6-MWT), and QOL (EQ-5D-3L). |
Adly AS et al. |
10.2196/23446 |
2021 |
Egypt |
N/A |
To compare two nonpharmacological respiratory treatment methods for home-isolated COVID-19 patients
using a newly developed telemanagement health care system |
Randomised controlled trial |
Rehabilitation services at home |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Acute |
COVID-19 |
60 |
N/A |
Osteopathic manipulative respiratory and physical therapy techniques |
Oxygen therapy with B-PAP |
Primary outcome: Time needed to reach normal levels of both pO2 and pCO2, which were assessed every 48
hours. Secondary outcome measures were temperature, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, heart rate, and
blood pressure, which were evaluated every 24 hours. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
In the present study patients were recruited during acute stage of COVID-19, and were divided in two
groups of 30 patients each, one treated with oxygen therapy with B-PAP and one with osteopathic
manipulative respiratory and physical therapy techniques. Since patients were isolated at their
respective home, all the patients where monitored using telemedicine. A real-time videoconference was
established between the patient and the physiotherapist for training, directing, and supervising the
patient during self-application of osteopathic and physical therapy treatments. The results of the study
show that home-based oxygen therapy with B-PAP can be a more effective prophylactic treatment approach
than osteopathic manipulative respiratory and physical therapy techniques, as it can impede exacerbation
of early-stage COVID-19 pneumonia. Telemanagement health care systems are promising methods to help in
the pandemic-related shortage of hospital beds, as they showed reasonable effectiveness and reliability
in the monitoring and management of patients with early-stage COVID-19 pneumonia |
Ahmed I et al. |
10.1080/21679169.2021.1909649 |
2021 |
Pakistan |
N/A |
To determine the effect of moderate to high-intensity aerobic and breathing exercise on
cardiorespiratory fitness and health-related Quality of Life in post-discharge COVID-19 patients |
Analytical: Cohort study |
Specialized outpatient rehabilitation |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
20 |
N/A |
Five weeks (3 sessions/week) of aerobic training (20–60 min/session) and breathing exercise training (10
min/session). |
N/A |
6-minute walking test, SF36, Modified Borg dyspnoea |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study reports 20 post-discharge COVID-19 patients (13 males, mean age 39.6, mean 26.1 post-COVID-19
days) underwent five weeks of aerobic training and breathing exercise training. Sub-group analysis
according to inpatient ventilatory support used in the active course of the disease was also performed
(10 subjects per group). Cardiorespiratory fitness, dyspnoea, and quality of life significantly improved
after training. Both subgroups improved over time in measures of endurance, dyspnoea, and quality of
life. An increase in exercise tolerance was observed in subjects who did not use inpatient ventilatory
support. The same subjects showed a trend towards greater improvement in General health and Body pain
domains of health-related quality of life and dyspnoea. This study suggests that rehabilitation training
may further functional recovery in post-discharge COVID-19 patients. |
Betschart M et al. |
10.3390/ijerph18083978 |
2021 |
Switzerland |
From March 2020 to June 2020 |
To present feasibility data of outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation and to provide preliminary data on
the outcomes of outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation with specific information on dose and training
intensities. |
Analytical: Cohort study |
Specialized outpatient rehabilitation |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
12 |
N/A |
Pulmonary Rehabilitation program :twice weekly, interval-based aerobic cycle endurance training,
followed by resistance training; 60–90 min per session at intensities of 50% peak work rate; education
and physical activity coaching were also provided. |
N/A |
Dropouts, number of training sessions undertaken, tolerability for dose and training mode, 6MWT, Medical
Research Council Dyspnea Scale, EQ-5D-5L VAS , Post-COVID-19 Functional Status scale, FSS |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study reports 12 patients underwent a rehabilitation program at 41,5 days from COVID-19 diagnosis.
Three dropouts (25%) were reported after 11–19 sessions. Tolerability of interval-based training was 83%
and 100% for exercise duration of aerobic cycle endurance and resistance training, respectively; 92% for
training intensity, 83% progressive increase of intensity, and 83% mode in aerobic cycle endurance . The
authors suggest from these preliminary findings that the protocol used may be feasible, and confer
benefits to a small subgroup of patients recovering from COVID-19. |
Blanco et al. |
10.1016/j.cmi.2021.02.019
|
2021 |
Spain |
N/A |
To describe lung function in patients recovering from COVID-19 hospitalization and to identify
biomarkers in serum and induced sputum samples from these patients. |
Analytical: Cohort study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
100 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Clinical and laboratory parameters, pulmonary function tests, 6-MWT and chest CT. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Patients hospitalized for COVID-19 were studied at a median time of 104 days after symptoms onset.
Almost half of them (47%) had severe COVID-19. Thorax CT scan were normal in 48% of patients. DLCO was
=>80% in just 48% of patients. DLCO < 80% and a lower serum lactate dehydrogenase level were associated
with the severe disease. Patients with DLCO<80% were able to walk a significantly lower distance
during 6-MWT than patients with DLCO=>80% (513 vs 577 meters on average). Furthermore, only 39.2% of
patients with DLCO<80% were able to walk more than 550 meters at 6-MWT, compared to 66% of patients
with DLCO=>80%. In total, 51 out of 100 patients were able to walk more than 550 meters at
6-MWT. |
Buccafusca M |
10.1007/s10072-020-05001-4
|
2021 |
Italy |
From 08 March 2020 to 30 May 2020 |
To describe the natural history of PD patients hospidalized for COVID-19 infection |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Acute, post-acute, late-onset, or permanent on a pre-existing health condition |
COVID-19 with PD |
12 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study reports 12 patients affected by PD who became infected with SARS-Cov-2 in a care residency,
and thus hospitalised in a COVID hospital. Most PD patients had a long disease duration and multiple
comorbidities. Despite lung conditions, most PD patients in this study had mild symptoms: 7 patients
were clinically asymptomatic (58.3%); 3 patients had fever, cough, and myalgia (25%) and 2 patients had
dyspnoea (16%) that needed high-flow oxygen therapy. All patients were discharged after a mean
hospitalisation period of 30 days. The mortality rate during hospitalization was zero. SARS-CoV-2
infection did not have a poor prognosis in this cohort of PD patients. |
Cao J et al. |
10.1177/ 17534666211009410
|
2021 |
China |
From January 22 to March 7, 2020 |
To evaluate the outcomes of patients with COVID-19 at 1 and 3 months after discharge using: clinical
features, blood tests, chest CT, pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and SF-36. |
Analytical: Cohort study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
81 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Chest CT abnormalities, pulmonary function test, 6-MWT, SF36 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
At 3 months follow-up, chest CT abnormalities were present in more than half of COVID-19 survivors (54%)
and worse chest CT scores were independently associated with older age and steroid administration during
hospitalization. Residual pulmonary function impairments were modest, whereas exercise capacity and
SF-36 scores were significantly lower than the general population. Support program and further follow-up
evaluations may be needed. |
Chiu M |
10.1016/j.jcjq.2021.02.007
|
2021 |
USA |
From March 30, 2020, to May, 22, 2020 |
To outline the development and implementation of an efficient interdisciplinary team dedicated to the
critical need of PP interventions. |
Analytical: Cohort study |
Rehabilitation in acute care |
Meso Level |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Acute |
COVID-19 |
100 |
N/A |
Development of a Prone Team during the pandemic |
N/A |
number of daily interventions provided by the Prone Team, adverse events |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prone Team was developed to respond to the rapidly growing number of
patients with respiratory distress. A group of physical therapists and occupational therapists (PT/OTs)
with ICU experience was redeployed from their regular roles to receive intensive training in PP from an
experienced medical ICU registered nurses. As the workload increased, additional PT/OTs were recruited
to the team. A coordinating structure comprising attending pulmonologists screened and advised on
appropriate patients. A communication and feedback structure was also implemented. Over a period of
seven weeks, the team provided PP to more than 100 patients, with 577 individual interventions in a
total of 14 ICUs and one emergency department. The patients remained prone for a median of 19 hours per
session.There were no major airway or central venous access complications, and only one anterior
pressure injury was recorded.The rapid implementation of an interdisciplinary PP team in a crisis
situation is feasible. It can provide a safe and efficient alternative to adding to the workload of an
overloaded nursing staff. |
Darley et al. |
10.5694/mja2.50963 |
2021 |
Australia |
May - July 2020 |
To assess the prevalence and nature of persistent symptoms; to evaluate lung function, health- related
quality of life, neurocognitive and olfactory abnormalities during the recovery period, and to
characterise the longitudinal immune response to infection. |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
78 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Complex lung function testing, computerised CogState Cognitive Test Battery, NIH Toolbox Odor
Identification test,Depression in
the Medically Ill questionnaire (DMI- 10), post COVID-19 maniefestations |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Seventy-eight patients were assessed at a median 69 days after diagnosis. Thirty-one patients had
persistent symptoms, including fatigue (n: 17), shortness of breath (n: 15), and chest tightness (n:
14). Sixty- five patients underwent complex lung function testing at a median of 113 days after COVID-19
diagnosis. Total lung capacity was abnormal in 18 patients, hospitalised patients have a significantly
lower median total lung capacity compared to community-treated patients (P = 0.023). Eight patients were
cognitively impaired, while five patients had mild and three had moderate cognitive impairment. Sixteen
patients reported symptoms of depression. |
Daunter AK et al. |
10.1002/pmrj.12624 |
2021 |
USA |
From March 4, 2020 and May 1, 2020. |
To examine the prevalence of functional decline and related rehabilitation needs at hospital discharge
|
Analytical: Case-control study |
General postacute rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
288 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Discharge location; need for outpatient physical, occupational, or speech therapy; need for durable
medical equipment at discharge; presence of dysphagia at discharge; functional decline measured by
?????. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study included 288 COVID-19 subjects (mean age 66.80±15.31 years, males 57.6%; Length of stay
13.40±12.84). 17% were deceased at the time of discharge, 63,5 % of COVID-19 survivors were discharged
to home, 12,8 % to subacute rehabilitation or Skilled Nursing Facility, 1.7% were transferred to another
acute care hospital or field hospital, 1.7% were transferred to a Long Term Acute Care Hospital.
Additionally, 1.4% transferred to an unaffiliated acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital. 45% percent
of survivors experienced functional decline impacting their discharge, as they required additional
physical, occupational, or speech therapy at discharge (80.6%); new durable medical equipment needs
(67.6%); or diet modifications for dysphagia (at least 26.7%). 40.6% of the survivors were never
assessed by a PM&R physician, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or speech language pathologist
during their hospitalization.
Length of stay as well as days on ventilator differed significantly between those who did and did not
show functional declines: Those who showed functional decline had significantly longer length of stay
(21.70±14.64 vs 6.21±5.61) and were mechanically ventilated longer (mean =6.96±9.69).
The authors conclude that the results support the need for rehabilitative services during and after
hospitalization for COVID-19. |
Debeaumont D et al. |
10.1093/ptj/pzab099 |
2021 |
France |
Up to November 2020 |
To assess physical fitness and its relationship with functional dyspnea in in COVID-19 survivors at 6
months after their discharge from hospital |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
23 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
mMRC dyspnea score, pulmonary function testing, respiratory muscle testing, arterial blood gas
measurements and cardiopulmonary exercise testing, thorugh an electromagnetic ergometer, dyspnoea Borg
scale, muscle fatigue Borg scale |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
At 6 months after discharge from hospital, dyspnoea was the most frequent persistent symptom (78%) in
post-COVID-19 patients. The mean mMRC dyspnea score was 1 and was significantly associated with VO2peak
(%) (rho = -0.49; P = 0.019). Considering the hospitalization of study participants, the ones previously
hospitalized in general ward had a slightly reduced VO2peak (87%), whereas the ones previously
hospitalized in ICUs had a moderately reduced VO2peak (77%). |
Erben Y et al. |
10.1016/j.jvsv.2021.03.009
|
2021 |
USA |
From March 11, 2020 to September 4, 2020. |
To assess the incidence of DVT and PE in hospitalized COVID-19 patients and to compare the incidence
with that in a non-COVID-19 cohort, matched for cardiovascular risk factors. Secondary aim was to study
the effects of DVT/PE on the hospital course and early outcomes. |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Acute |
COVID-19 |
915 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Primary: incidence of DVT and PE |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This is a retrospective review of data from 915 hospitalized COVID-19 patients ( mean age was 60.8,
43.3% were women). The incidence of DVT and pulmonary embolism in 915 hospitalized patients with COVID-
19 was 9.0% at a mean point after admission of 13.1 (+-19.9 days) greater than the 0.6% incidence in the
matched non-COVID-19 cohort. Patients with COVID-19 who developed DVT/PE had greater mortality, more ICU
admissions, a longer ICU stay, and longer hospitalization compared with hospitalized COVID-19 patients
without DVT/PE. The vascular risk factors were not different between the COVID-19 patients with and
without DVT/PE. IL-6 was associated with a greater risk of rehabilitation placement after discharge.
Advancements in DVT/PE prevention are needed for patients hospitalized for COVID-19 infection. |
Fayol A et al. |
10.1002/ehf2.13315 |
2021 |
France |
March - April 2020 |
To report the presence and quantify the extent of myocardial functional alterations in patients
hospitalized 6 months earlier for COVID-19 infection |
Analytical: Case-control study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Cardiovascular functions (Heart b410) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
48 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Rest and low-level exercise transthoracic echocardiography, presenc of chest pain, dyspnoea, asthenia,
and cough |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
At 6 months after discharge from hospital, 60.4% of post-COVID-19 patients still reported clinical
symptoms including exercise dyspnoea for 56% and asthenia for 21%. Dividing the cohort in two sub-groups
according to the occurrence of myocardial injury (MI) during COVID-19 hospitalization, a low-level
exercise induced a significant increase in the average septal-lateral E/e′ ratio (10.1±4.3 vs. 7.3±11.5;
p=0.01) and the systolic pulmonary artery pressure (33.4±7.8 vs. 25.6±5.3 mmHg; p=0.02) in patients that
previously had a myocardial injury. However, in spite of increased cardiac diastolic abnormalities
observed in patients who experienced MI, no significant differences were observed in the rate of the
most prevalent symptoms between subgroups: dyspnoea was present in 62% cases with MI vs 53% in cases
without MI, asthenia in 25% with MI vs 19% without MI. |
Gianella et al. |
10.1186/s12890-021-01509-3
|
2021 |
Switzerland |
March - April 2020 |
To describe clinical, radiological, lung function parameters and self-reported quality of life (QoL) of
patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia, both at diagnosis and at three-month follow-up. |
Analytical: Cohort study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
39 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
abnormalities on CT scans, complex lung function testing, St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, SF-12
|
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Thirtynine patients were enrolled in the study. At three months, 82% of the cohort had persisting
abnormalities on CT scans, while a statistically significant reduction in the CT score were recorded.
Reduced DLCO and/or restriction were found in 64.1% of patients. In addition, SpO 2 impairment during
6MWT was reported (91.3% ± 3.5). Abnormal total score on the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire was
reported in 79.5% of patients, while all patients reported an abnormal SF-12 score. |
González et al. |
10.1016/j.chest.2021.02.062
|
2021 |
Spain |
Between March and June, 2020 |
To report a descriptive observational cohort of patients with COVID-19 admitted to ICU . |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
62 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Pulmonary function tests, 6-MWT, chest CT, HADS, SF-12. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The study reports an observational cohort of post ICU COVID-19 patients including 62 patients, who were
tested at 3-months follow-up. Pulmonary function testing showed a DLCO < 80% in 82% of patients. The
median distance convered in the 6MWT was 400 m. CT scans showed abnormal results in 70.2% of
patients, associated with decresead pulmonary function. Three months after hospital discharge,
pulmonary structural abnormalities and functional impairment were highly prevalent in patients with
ARDS secondary to COVID-19 who required an ICU stay. Pulmonary evaluation should be considered for
all critical COVID-19 survivors 3 months after discharge. |
Hoyois A et al. |
10.1002/jpen.2101 |
2021 |
Belgium |
From 15 April to 1 June, 2020. |
To assess the nutritional status of critical COVID-19 patients when discharged from the ICU, evaluate if
and how the nutritional recommendations (30 kcal/kg/day and 1,5g of proteins/kg/day) are met during the
rehabilitation period and measure the evolution of nutrition parameters such as weight, body mass index
and muscular strength (hand grip and mid-arm circumference). |
Analytical: Cohort study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Digestive functions (b510) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
15 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Anthropometric measurements, handgrip strength. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Fifteen patients were studied at ICU discharge and 15,30 and 60 days later. Inclusion criteria included
previous mechanical ventilation and at least 14 days of stay in ICU. After ICU discharge all the
patients presented malnutrition. All the patients underwent inpatient rehabilitation and nutritional
supplement after ICU discharge (median stay 38 days, range 26-51). Dysphagia was present in 60% of
patients, who needed enteral nutrition. After 2 months, a signfiicant improvement in handgrip strength
and weight was observed |
Iqbal A et al. |
10.7759/cureus.13080 |
2021 |
Pakistan |
September - December 2020 |
To investigate the stigma associated with being a COVID-19 survivor and explore probable post-COVID-19
rehabilitation strategies for the hospital- and home-treated COVID-19 patients. I MAIN FINDINGS NON
PARLANO DISTIGMA MA DI ALTRE MISURE DI OUTOME |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
Specialized postacute rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
158 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Sociodemographic data, post-COVID-19 manifestations, questions relating to the stigma, EQ5D5L |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Almost all patients (94.9%) experienced at least one post-COVID-19 symptom. Fatigue (82.9%) was the most
prevalent post-discharge manifestation. The patients affirmed to have dypnoea in 50% of cases and joint
pain in 47.5%. There was a statistically significant relation of age with the presence of post-COVID-19
manifestations such as dyspnea (p=0.007) and joint pain (p<0.001). A significantly higher number of
females suffered from persistent COVID-19-associated symptoms, as fatigue (58.8%), anxiety (66.7%),
and joint pain (64%). |
Jain E et al. |
10.1002/pmrj.12607 |
2021 |
USA |
From April 9th to September 1st, 2020 |
To determine the functional outcomes and utilization of follow up medical care 90 days following
discharge from acute inpatient rehabilitation, as compared to rehabilitation impairment in age matched
controls. |
Analytical: Cohort study |
General postacute rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
18 |
N/A |
N/A |
18 Matched Control Patients were selected based on having the same admitting impairment group category
and similar age |
Functional outcomes(GG Self-Care and Mobility Activities items), hospital readmissions, and follow- up
care sought by patients |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Patients with COVID-19 compared to the control group had a significantly longer acute hospitalization
length of stay of 18 days as compared to 9 days, respectively .More patients with COVID-19 required
oxygen during acute hospitalization as compared to controls. The COVID-19 patient group had similar
improvements in functional outcomes as compared to controls. All patients were discharged home, with the
majority of patients in both cohorts receiving home care services such as visiting nurses or therapy.
Patients with COVID-19 required fewer readmissions than their matched controls in the 30-90-day periods
and required fewer follow up visits with specialists after discharge from the Inpatient Rehabilitation
Facility .The functional outcome data suggest that COVID-19 patient group recovered with similar
rehabilitation efficiencies to their controls. Patients with functional deficits as a result of
COVID-19, requiring multiple therapy disciplines should be considered for acute inpatient rehabilitation
as this study demonstrates their ability to participate in and benefit from Inpatient Rehabilitation
Facility level care. |
Journeay et al. |
10.2340/20030711-1000053 |
2021 |
Canada |
April-June 2020 |
To describe the sociodemographic features, impairments, and functional changes of COVID-19-positive
individuals who underwent inpatient rehabilitation |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
General postacute rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
41 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
LOS in rehabilitation hospital, admission and discharge total FIM score; admission Montreal Cognitive
Assessment (MoCA) score, number of readmissions to acute care |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Forty-one patients were assessed after 19 days from COVID-19 diagnosis at admission to a rehabilitation
hospital. 9.8% of patients were already disabled before COVID-19. The most commonly affected body
functions were: neuromusculoskeletal (73.2%), cardiovascular, hematological, immunological, and
respiratory (65.9%), and mental functions (29.3%). The median rehabilitation LOS was 16 days (IQR
13–22), with an admission total FIM of 85 (IQR 75–97) and discharge total FIM of 108.5 (IQR 103–118).
|
Kikutani T |
10.3390/nu13041113 |
2021 |
Japan |
May -June 2020 |
To examine the relationship between eating/swallowing function and COVID-19 infection in schizophrenic
patients |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Digestive functions (b510) |
Acute, post-acute, late-onset, or permanent on a pre-existing health condition |
COVID-19 with schizophrenia |
44 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Food Intake Level Scale |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study included 44 patients (mean age of 68.86 years) with confirmed COVID-19 who were admitted to
the psychiatric ward to treat schizophrenia. The mean duration of hospitalization for COVID-19 infection
was 32.1 ± 19.1 days (range: 8–83 days). Pre-infection, 20 subjects had a FILS score of 7–9 (presence of
eating/swallowing disorder) and 24 subjects had a score of 10 (normal). Eating function after infection
resolution showed decreasing FILS score in 14 subjects. Six subjects transitioned from oral feeding to
parenteral feeding. A ≥ 10% weight loss during infection treatment was significantly associated with
decreased eating function and a transition to parenteral feeding. In schizophrenic patients, who are
already prone to experiencing decreased swallowing function, weight loss due to COVID-19 infection is a
major risk factor for further decrease in eating/swallowing function. Preventing malnutrition during
treatment for COVID-19 is important to improve post-infection prognosis and maintain quality of life.
|
Leite et al. |
10.1016/j.apmr.2021.03.001.
|
2021 |
Brazil |
From March 15 to August 27, 2020 |
To report symptoms, disability and rehabilitation referral rates after COVID-19 hospitalization in a
large, predominantly elderly population. |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
Rehabilitation services at home |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
1696 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Clinical history and actual clinical data, independece measured using BI and IADLs scale. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
In this cross-sectional study a total of 1,733 individuals were screened, and 1,696 were included in the
study, 3 months after COVID-19 onset. Out of all the patients, 21.0% were admitted to the ICU at any
point during their hospitalization. Patients who were admitted to ICU presented worse post-discharge
outcomes, including higher incidence of symptoms like shortness of breath, and lower independence in
ADLs and IADLs. A rehabilitation plan, consisting in an exercise booklets, was offered to 65.5% of
patients. Post-discharge patients at 3-month follow up presented high levels of disability and
dependance, especially patients who needed ICU stay. |
Liu K et al. |
10.1016/j.ctcp.2020.101166
|
2020 |
China |
From January 1 to February 6, 2020 |
To investigate the effects of 6-week respiratory rehabilitation training on respiratory function, QoL,
mobility and psychological function in elderly patients with COVID-19. |
Randomised controlled trial |
Specialized outpatient rehabilitation |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
72 |
N/A |
Respiratory rehabilitation (36 cases) |
No rehabilitation (36 cases) |
pulmonary function tests including plethysmography and DLCO, functional tests (6-MWT), QoL assessments
(SF-36), ADL (FIM), and mental status tests (anxiety and depression). |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Seventy-two COVID-19 patients aged 65 years old or more with no cognitive impairment were recruited for
this study. Patients were randomized to receive respiratory rehabilitation, including respiratory muscle
training, cough exercises, diaphragmatic training, stretching exercises, and home exercises
(intervention group) or no treatment. The results of the study show that the six-week respiratory
rehabilitation program can improve respiratory function (FEV1, FVC%), endurance (6-MWT), QoL (SF-36) and
anxiety of elderly patients with COVID-19, but it provides little benefit on depression in the elderly
|
Liu M |
10.3389/fmed.2021.636298 |
2021 |
China |
From February 10, 2020 to March 23, 2020. |
To verify the existence of long-term pulmonary sequelae in COVID-19 survivors |
Analytical: Case-control study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
41 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
41 COVID-19 patients performed follow-up chest CT and cardiopulmonary exercise testing at 7 months after
discharge. Patients were divided into fibrosis group (12 cases) and non-fibrosis group (29 cases)
according to the evidence of fibrosis on follow-up CT. The predominant CT patterns of abnormalities
observed at 7 months after discharge were parenchymal band (41%), interlobular septal thickening (32%),
and traction bronchiectasis (29%). Sixty-one percent of the patients achieved complete radiological
resolution, and 29% of patients developed pulmonary fibrosis. Compared with the patients in the
non-fibrosis group, the patients in the fibrosis group were older, with a longer hospital stay, a higher
rate of steroid and mechanical ventilation therapy, lower levels of lymphocyte and T cell count, higher
levels of D-dimer and lactic dehydrogenase, and higher quantitative CT parameters at discharge. Age,
steroid therapy, presence of traction bronchiectasis on chest CT at discharge, and opacity score at
discharge, were independent risk factors for developing pulmonary fibrosis at 7 months after discharge.
The combined clinical-radiological model may predict the formation of pulmonary fibrosis early. |
Liu Y et al. |
10.1080/13548506.2021.1916956 |
2021 |
China |
From March 2020 |
To assess the effects of a psychological intervention combined with pulmonary rehabilitation exercises
on anxiety and sleep disorders in patients with mild COVID-19 |
Randomised controlled trial |
General postacute rehabilitation |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Nervous system structures (s1) and related functions (Mental functions b1) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
140 |
N/A |
Group psychological intervention and pulmonary rehabilitation exercises (70 cases) |
Standard care according to the Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol for Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia
(National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Health Commission of China, 2020),
which included monitoring body temperature, pulse and heart rate; effective oxygen therapy and aerosol
inhalation; instructing patients to rest in bed, drink more warm water and eat nutritious and light
meals. (70 cases) |
State Anxiety Inventory, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The patients were enrolled in hospitals built to treat a huge number of mild COVID-19 patients to reduce
‘run-on-hospital’ phenomena. Through group psychological intervention combined with pulmonary
rehabilitation exercises, anxiety and sleep disorders of the hospitalized patients with mild COVID-19
infections were significantly less than those of the control treated with conventional nursing methods .
Many factors, e.g., gender, educational background, and underlying disease status, etc., were revealed
at some extent to be related to the effects of the intervention and exercises. Since the COVID-19
disease has not been eliminated yet, this study could provide a nursing framework by establishing
efficient social platforms and multiple interaction mechanisms among medical staff and patients. |
Mallia P et al. |
10.1136/
bmjresp-2021-000908 |
2021 |
United Kindom |
From May 1 to July 21, 2020 |
To collect symptomatic, radiographic, biochemical and healthcare utilisation data from patients with
COVID-19 who attended a follow-up clinic after discharge from hospital in order to describe the recovery
times for these parameters, examine the factors associated with symptomatic and radiographic recovery
and record unscheduled healthcare use in these patients. |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
401 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Time to clinic from discharge; Time to clinic from illness onset; Abnormal chest radiograph; Symptoms; C
reactive protein; Ferritine; D-dimer |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Most patients (75.1%) were symptomatic at a median 53 days post discharge and 72 days after symptom
onset and chest radiographs were abnormal in 47.4%. Symptoms and radiographic abnormalities were similar
in PCR-positive and PCR-negative patients. Severity of COVID-19 was significantly associated with
persistent radiographic abnormalities and breathlessness. Almost 20% of patients (18.5%) had unscheduled
healthcare visits in the 30 days post discharge. |
Mateo S et al. |
10.1016/j.rehab.2021.101516
|
2021 |
France |
From April 20, 2020 to July 16, 2020 |
To assess if FES-cycling used in combination with physiotherapy early after ICU discharge in patients
with critical COVID-19 is safe to favour erectus position restoration and spontaneous walking resumption
more rapidly than rehabilitation without FES-cycling. |
Pilot controlled trial |
General postacute rehabilitation |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
14 |
N/A |
functional electrical stimulation with cycling (n=8): 20 days for a total of 4 weeks, 2 sessions of
physiotherapy (30 min each) and one 30-min session of cycling per day with FES |
cycling alone (n=6) |
Actimetry: Time spent in different posture/activities during daytime (min/day), manual muscle test using
the MRC score , FEV1, FVC |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study included 14 patients admitted to the rehabilitation department after hospitalisation in the
ICU for a critical form of COVID-19 (Intubation duration days: 14.5 for FES-cycling group and 20.5 for
controls). As compared with cycling alone, FES-cycling was associated with greater beneficial decline in
the daytime spent sedentary (e.g. lying, reclining or sitting), a higher increase in time spending
walking or running.
All patients progressively improved across rehabilitation weeks but patients who benefitted from
FES-cycling had a significantly greater daily-life physical activity recovery profile as compared with
the control group. These preliminary results suggest the interest of offering rehabilitation enriched by
FES- cycling to patients with critical COVID-19 as soon as they leave the ICU even though the risk of
contagion requires rehabilitation under conditions of strict isolation. Nevertheless, the effect of
FES-cycling on this improved physical activity recovery profile remains to be understood because it was
neither explained by nor associated with an increase in muscle strength or cardiorespiratory adaptation.
|
Medrinal C et al. |
10.1186/s12871-021-01274-0
|
2021 |
France |
Between March 16 and May 15, 2020 |
To report the prevalence of limb and respiratory muscle weakness in COVID-19 ICU survivors and to
analyse variables associated with muscle weakness. |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Nervous system structures (s1) and related functions (Neuromusculoskeletal and movement related
functions b7) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
23 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
MIP, MRC, IMS |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
23 patients with severe COVID-19 requiring intubation were evaluated at three timepoints: at extubation,
at discharge from ICU and telephonically 30 days after discharge. All patients underwent rehabilitation
in the ICU. Most patients (69%) had limb muscle weakness at extubation, and 26% of patients had both
limb and respiratory muscle weakness. The number of sessions of physiotherapy was not associated with
higher muscle strength. At the 30-days follow-up almost half of patients (44%) were not able to walk
autonomously for 100 meters. |
Milovancev et al. |
10.3390/ijerph18084059 |
2021 |
Serbia |
N/A |
To assess the effects of COVID-19 in detraining on the cardiorespiratory status of volleyball athletes
after COVID-19 infection |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
16 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Body composition, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, MVV, cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), cardiorespiratory
fitness, WE (W), VE, VO2, VCO2 (L/min), RER, VE/VCO2, O2 pulse, HR, VE/VO2 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Sixteen sixteen male Serbian first division volleyball players, aged 24 4.5 years, had a recent mild
COVID-19 infection (symptom duration : one week on average; return to everyday sports activities: 3
weeks after symptom onset). They were assessed after 20 days of re-training. FVC, FEV1/FVC and MVV
values were over 80% of predicted values [FVC(L)=5.3±2.2; FEV-1(L)=4.7±1.9; FEV1/FVC (%)=90.5±8.2;
MVV=147.7±64.8(L/min)], while ECG testing revealed no cardiac abnormalities. VE, VCO2, RER and oxygen
pulse increased, heart rate exceeded 90% of predicted values, and peak VO2 values were typical for this
level of athlete (44.1 ± 3.4 mL/kg). VT1 (73%) and VT2 (92.5%) were above-average values. |
Monti G et al. |
10.1111/aas.13812 |
2021 |
Italy |
February - April 2020 |
To assess the quality of life of invasively ventilated COVID-19 ARDS survivors at the follow-up
evaluation after ICU discharge |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
39 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
GOSe, FAC, Borg CR-10 scale, MNA-SF, EQ-5D-3L, HADS, PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, ISI, Itel-MMSE |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Thirty-nine patients were assessed at a median 61 (51-71) days after ICU discharge, reporting no
difficulty in walking (82%), self-care (85%), and usual activities (78%). All patients were either
malnourished (38%) or at risk for malnutrition (62%). Thus, the authors concluded that Invasively
ventilated COVID-19 ARDS survivors have an overall good recovery at 2 months after discharge. |
Musheyev B |
10.1186/s40560-021-00542-y
|
2021 |
USA |
From 15 March 2020 to 29 June 2020 |
To investigate the functional status of COVID-19 IMV survivors at ICU and hospital discharge, and to
correlate it with some clinical variables. |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
118 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The modified “Mental Status”, ICU Mobility, and Barthel Index scores at ICU and hospital discharge |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study investigated the functional status of 118 COVID- 19 IMV survivors at ICU and hospital
discharge. The major findings were (i) the majority of patients (94%) were functionally independent
prior to COVID-19 illness, but not at hospital discharge (22% discharged with a cane or rolling walker,
49% discharged with durable medical equipment, and 14% admitted to a rehabilitation facility), (ii) half
of patients were discharged with supplemental oxygen equipment, (iii) the most prevalent medical
follow-up recommendations were cardiology, vascular medicine, pulmonology, endocrinology, and neurology
with many patients receiving multiple medical follow-up recommendations (iv) Functional status improved
from ICU discharge to hospital discharge (v) worse functional status at hospital discharge was
associated with longer IMV duration, older age, male sex, higher number of comorbidities, hypertension,
diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and immunosuppression. The data suggested that most
patients were not functionally independent, and many still had significant unresolved medical issues at
hospital discharge. Follow-up studies are important to ascertain long-term outcomes and anticipate
healthcare needs for COVID-19 survivors |
Olezene CS |
10.1371/
journal.pone.0248824 |
2021 |
USA |
From April 29 to May 22, 2020 |
To characterize the functional impairments of a cohort of patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation
after surviving severe COVID-19 illness, in order to better understand the ongoing needs of this patient
population |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
General postacute rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
29 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
BBS, 6MWT, 10MWT, FCM |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study described the clinical characteristics of a cohort of 29 patients (mean age of 59.5) who
underwent inpatient rehabilitation following hospitalization for severe COVID-19. The mean length of
acute hospitalization was 32.2 days with a mean of 18.7 days intubated. Dysphagia (86.2%), weight loss
(79.3%), and delirium (69%) were the most common complications. Patients spent a mean of 16.7 days in
inpatient rehabilitation and 90% were discharged home. Patients demonstrated significant improvement
from admission to discharge in measures of fall risk, endurance, gait speed, mobility, cognition,
speech, and swallowing. At discharge, a significant portion of the population continued to deficits in
cognition (attention 37%; memory 28%; problem-solving 28%), balance (55%), and gait speed (97%). These
data highlight the post-acute care needs of this patient population. |
Ordinola Navarro A et al. |
10.1016/j.rmed.2021.106391
|
2021 |
Mexico |
From April 01 to July 30, 2020. |
To evaluate the changes in quality-of-life and spirometric alterations in the convalescent phase of 115
patients with at least 30 days post-COVID-19. |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
115 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Spirometry, EQ-5D-5L |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
115 patients (median age: 40 years, 57% women, 70% with mild or moderate COVID-19; 27% hospitalized for
a median 10 days, IQR: 6-12) were assessed at 58±18 days of symptom onset. The persistence of symptoms
was present in 63% cases, of whom 19% had at least two symptoms. There was a severe decrease in QOL up
to 56%. Alterations in usual activities and anxiety/depression were present in 59% of patients with a
severe decrease in QOL. The persistence of symptoms was present in 63% cases. Restrictive lung
impairment was the most common spirometric alteration in 17%(20/115), of which 65%(13/20) had mild
COVID-19. Spirometric alterations are present even in mild COVID-19, and more remarkably, there is a
high rate of alterations in quality of life after the recovery of this disease. |
Paneroni M et al. |
10.1016/j.pulmoe.2021.03.009 |
2021 |
Italy |
From April 1 to June 30, 2020 |
To investigate the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of a 1- month Telerehabilitation program in
individuals discharged after recovery from COVID-19 pneumonia |
Analytical: Cohort study |
Specialized outpatient rehabilitation |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
25 |
N/A |
One-month telerehabilitation program consisting of aerobic reconditioning , muscle strengthening and
healthy lifestyle education one hour/day. Twice a week, a physiotherapist contacted the patient-by
video-call via a dedicated platform-to monitor progress. |
N/A |
6MWT, 1 min Sit-to-Stand, and Barthel Dyspnoea Index, nd (1MSTS), Program adherence (i.e. number of
performed/scheduled video-calls) |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Out of 25 consecutive patients, 24 completed the program. Patients attended 7.2±1.7 out of 8 video-calls
scheduled and nurses made 13.4 ± 2.1 phone calls. Patients reported fatigue (70.8%), muscle pain
(50.0%), exercise induced dyspnoea (50.0%), and sleep disorders (41.7%). After one month of TR, patients
improved exercise tolerance and dyspnoea. However, approximately 20% of patients were non-responders. No
adverse events were found. This preliminary report, although limited by the small sample size and
absence of a control group, confirms the feasibility and safety of a dedicated telerehabilitation
program for survivors of COVID-19 pneumonia.. As with chronic cardiopulmonary diseases,
telerehabilitation may help to avoid a gap in service delivery following hospital discharge of COVID- 19
patients and should be integrated into their follow-up. |
Qureshi A et al. |
10.1161/STROKEAHA.120.031786 |
2021 |
USA |
December 2019 - April 2020 |
To identify risk factors, comorbidities, treatment strategies, and outcomes in patients with ischemic
stroke derived from a large cohort of COVID-19 patients |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Nervous system structures (s1) and related functions (Neuromusculoskeletal and movement related
functions b7) |
Acute |
COVID-19 |
7709 (103 with stroke, 7606 without stroke) |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Demographic and clinical characteristics, discharge at home, discharge to other destionations different
from home, in-hospital death |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
103 out of 7709 COVID-19 patients suffered an acute ischemic stroke. Mean age in this subroup was
significantly higher compared with those without stroke (68.8±15.1 vs 54.4±20.3; P<0.0001). The
in-hospital mortality (19.4% vs 6.2%; P<0.0001) and discharge to destination other than home (62.1%
vs 29.1%; P<0.0001) were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients with acute ischemic stroke
compared with those without stroke. |
Rass V et al. |
10.1111/ene.14803 |
2021 |
Austria |
Between April and September, 2020 |
To investigate the prevalence of neurological manifestations in COVID-19 patients at 3-months follow-up.
|
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Nervous system structures (s1) and related functions (Mental functions b1) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
135 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Prevalence of neurological symptoms at 3-months follow-up, 16-item Sniffin-Sticks-test, MoCA, SF-36,
PCL-5, HADS. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
At 3-months follow-up after COVID-19 of various degree of intensity (from severe to mild), 125
consecutve patients were tested for prevalence of neurological and psychological symptoms. Overall, 15%
of patients presented neurological symptoms who were not evident before COVID-19, including
poly-neuro/myopathy (n=16, 12%), mild encephalopathy (n=2, 2%), parkinsonism (n=1, 1%), orthostatic
hypotension (n=1, 1%), Guillain-Barré-Syndrome (n=1, 1%) and ischemic stroke (n=1, 1%). At the 3-months
follow-up, cognitive impairment, decrease in QoL, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress
disorders were all present in different percentage of patients, 23%, 31%, 11, 25% and 11% respectively.
|
Rinaldo RF et al. |
10.1183/13993003.00870-2021
|
2021 |
Italy |
May-August 2020 |
To evaluate the sequelae of COVID-19 assessing the exercise performance during incremental
Cardiopulmonary exercise test |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
Specialized outpatient rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
75 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Cardiopulmonary exercise test |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Seventy-five (43, 57% males) patients were studied at 97 +/- 26 days of hospital discharge . Thirty-nine
patients had a critical, 18 a severe, and 18 a mild-moderate disease. Forty- three (63%) patients showed
a residual parenchymal involvement at CT. Spirometry showed normal values. Compared to subjects with
normal exercise capacity (n=34), the patients with a reduced capacity (n=41) showed an early anaerobic
threshold, indicating a higher degree of deconditioning; they reached lower levels of performance and
earlier termination, with a lower work, a lower peak oxygen pulse, a higher Heart rate reserve, and a
wider breathing reserve. Deconditioning might be related to a direct effect of the viral load on the
muscle tissue, with an impaired O2 extraction and use, as well as to a prolonged hospital stay and
post-hospitalization syndrome. Remarkably, parameters of ventilatory efficiency or gas exchange were
still in the limit of normal and there was not a significant difference between patients with preserved
and those with a reduced exercise capacity; neither pulmonary function tests nor CT imaging did help
discriminate patients with a lower peak VO2. Thirty-nine (52%) patients reported dyspnea during their
daily activity. Residual dyspnea origin can depend on multiple factors, and a mildly impaired exercise
capacity associated with deconditioning might play a role. In conclusion, this study showed no relevant
functional sequelae on ventilatory and gas exchange response to exercise |
Sakai et al. |
10.2490/prm.20210013. |
2021 |
Japan |
Between April 21 and August 20, 2020 |
To describe the characteristics and efficiency of rehabilitation for patients diagnosed with
moderate-to-severe COVID-19. |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
Rehabilitation in acute care |
Meso Level |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Acute |
COVID-19 |
161 |
N/A |
Rehabilitation delivery model, integrating in-person sessions with remote treatment by the use of
technology, either in ICU, or in general COVID-19 ward. |
No treatment |
Clinical data, total number of sessions completed by patients. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Out of 191 COVID-19 patients studied , 95 underwent rehabilitation, 78 in the general COVID-19 wards and
17 in the ICU. They completed 1035 rehabilitation sessions in total, 882 in the general ward and 153 in
the ICU. Using technology such as tablet, 86 sessions of rehabilitation were remotely performed in order
to reduce exposition to COVID-19 ward to clinical operators. According to the authors, rehabilitation in
acute settings is feasible in COVID-19, and potentially remote rehabilitation can be used to decrease
the use of protective equipment and exposure of operators. |
Shendy W et al. |
N/A |
2021 |
Egypt |
From September 15 to December 15, 2020 |
To determine the prevalence of fatigue in adult people post mild and moderate COVID-19 cases and the
relation between fatigue post COVID-19 and several factors. |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
81 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
MFIS and Fatigue NRS. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Adult patients with mild and moderate COVID-19 were studied after three to five months from their
recovery. They showed fatigue in 64.2% cases . There was no significant association between fatigue and
age, sex, BMI, smoking, hospitalization and received treatment. The association between NRS and MFIS was
moderately positive and significant. |
Shi S et al. |
10.1016/j.jamda.2021.04.003
|
2020 |
USA |
From March 15 to May 30, 2020 |
To compare functional recovery between older adults presenting with and without COVID-19 and post-acute
recovery in SNF by baseline frailty in older adults presenting with COVID-19. |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
Rehabilitation in social assistance |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
42 |
N/A |
N/A |
31 COVID-19 negative elderly people admitted to a SNF |
The primary outcome was discharge to community. Secondary outcomes included change in functional status
from SNF admission to discharge, based on BI. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The study, including 42 COVID-19 positive elderly and 31 COVID-19 negative admitted to a SNF for post
hospitalization care, shows that COVID-19 positive patients has community discharge rates and functional
improvement comparable to a COVID-19 negative group. At baseline, patients had comparable length of
hospitalization (COVID-19 negative and positive respectively 10.4 and 11.6). The results of the present
study suggest that those with moderate or worse frailty at baseline improved significantly less on their
occupational therapy functional score, compared with those nonfrail and mild frail at baseline. Older
adults admitted to a SNF for post-acute care with COVID-19 generally had good functional recovery and
were discharged back to the community; however, those who are frailer tended to have a lower function at
discharge. |
Spielmanns M |
10.3390/ijerph18052695 |
2021 |
Switzerland |
From March to December 2020 |
To compare the effect of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in post-COVID-19 patients and in patients with
other lung diseases referred to PR in 2019. |
Analytical: Case-control study |
Specialized postacute rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
99 |
N/A |
Three weeks standard inpatient PR , for a total 25–30 therapy sessions on 5–6 weekdays |
PR delivered to patients with pulmonary diseases in 2019 (n = 419) |
FIM, 6-MWT, FT |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study compared the results of post-acute comprehensive PR delivered to severe post-COVID-19
patients with results observed in individuals with pulmonary diseases referred for PR in the preCOVID
era. Improvements in physical performance, endurance, actual wellbeing during PR were significantly
higher for the Post-COVID-19 patients. Consequently, healthcare facilities should develop and implement
plans for providing multidisciplinary rehabilitation treatments in various settings to recover
functioning and prevent the development of long-term consequences of the COVID-19 disease. |
Sryma P |
10.4103/lungindia.lungindia_794_20 |
2021 |
India |
N/A |
To determine whether the early use of PP combined with noninvasive modalities of oxygen therapy can
improve oxygenation and avoid the need for intubation in patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure due
to COVID-19 |
Analytical: Cohort study |
Rehabilitation in acute care |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Acute |
COVID-19 |
45 |
N/A |
PP (maintained for a minimum of 2 h per session and with a target duration of 8 h/day) combined with
noninvasive modalities of oxygen therapy (30 cases) |
Standard treatment (15 cases) |
Rate of intubation; ROX index at 30 min from the start of the intervention, ROX index at 12 h, days to
hypoxia resolution (defined as room air SpO2 >93%), and mortality. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
45 COVID-19 patients with hypoxic respiratory failure were included ; mean age 53.1 years. Age,
comorbidities, and baseline ROX index were similar across subgroups (undergone PP or standard treatment)
. The median duration of PP was 7.5 h on the 1st day. The need for MV was higher in the control group
(33.3%) versus the PP group (6.7%). At 30 min, there was a statistically significant improvement in the
mean ROX index of cases compared with that of the controls. No significant adverse effects related to
intervention were noted. Early awake PP is associated with significant improvement in oxygenation and
may reduce the need for MV in subjects with COVID‐19. |
Sun J et al. |
10.21037/apm-20-2014 |
2021 |
China |
From January 30 to March 3, 2020 |
To investigate the effects of a 3-week physical rehabilitation program delivered to inpatients with
severe COVID-19 in a stable phase . |
Analytical: Cohort study |
Specialized postacute rehabilitation |
Micro - Interventions (efficacy/harms) |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
31 |
N/A |
breathing exercise; respiratory muscle training; stretching training; psychotherapy; physical
rehabilitaiton (2 sessions per day for 3 weeks). |
N/A |
Respiratory symptoms, exercise endurance, activities of daily living (ADL) score, SaO2%, and oxygen
intake. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The baseline prevalence for dry cough, productive cough, and dyspnea was 67.74%, 54.84%, and 51.61%,
respectively, which all decreased pronouncedly over time. Already after 2-week physical rehabilitation,
the prevalence rate was 6.9% in dry cough, 20.69% in productive cough,and only 31.03% of patients
reported dyspnea as a remained symptom. After the completion of the 3-week physical rehabilitation,
overall the patients had significant improvement of their clinical condition: none had sputum, and fewer
felt fatigue or shortness breathe or palpitation, and all patients were able to wear clothes or shoes or
go to the toilet by themselves. |
Sun LL et al. |
10.1111/1751-2980.12983 |
2021 |
China |
February - March 2020 |
To perform an updated analysis of detailed clinical characteristics and a 3-month follow-up in
hospitalized COVID-19 patients in order to disclose the symptomatic features |
Analytical: Cohort study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
932 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Fever, cough, mMRC dyspnoea, fatigue, myalgia, and other COVID-19 symptomatic features |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Fever (60%), cough (50.8%), and fatigue (36.4%) were the most common symptoms in the 932 COVID-19
patients. Most dyspneoa occurred on the fourth day after illness onset, with a median duration of 16
days. multivariate regression analysis showed that fever lasting for more than 5 days (OR=1.9;
P=0.0498), anorexia (OR=2.6; P=0.0096) and mMRC dyspnoea >2 (OR=14.2; P<0.0001) were symptomatic risk
factors for severe COVID-19. At the 3-month follow-up evaluation, dyspnoea (7.2%) and cough (6.2%)
were the significant remaining symptoms. |
Taboada M et al. |
10.1016/j.jinf.2020.12.022
|
2020 |
Spain |
From March 1 to April 30, 2020 |
To describe functional status and the presence of persistent dyspnea six months after hospitalization.
|
Analytical: Cohort study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
242 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Clinical history, pulmonary function tests, 6-MWT, chest CT, HADS, SF-12, PCFS. |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
In the present study, a decreased functional status measured with PCFS scale was reported in 87 (47.5%)
patients at 6 months of COVID-19 infection. Female sex, age, length of hospital stay, mechanical
ventilation, and ICU admission were associated with limitations in the functional status (grade II-IV of
the PCSF). Six months after COVID-19, patients are susceptible to present reduced functional status that
impact their ability to care for themselves and to perform usual activities of daily living. |
Taboada M et al. |
10.1016/j.bja.2020.12.007.
|
2021 |
Spain |
March - April 2020 |
To evaluate through a structured interview HRQoL, functional status, and persistent symptoms in
post-COVID-19 patients at 6 months after requiring ICU treatment |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
91 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
EQ-5D-3L, PCFS |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
At 6 months after COVID-19, persistent symptoms correlated with COVID-19 were present in the 91
patients. A high proportion of patients reported dyspnoea on exertion (57%), asthaenia (37%), myalgia
(37%), and arthralgia (29%). Only 15 (16%) patients were completely free of persistent symptoms.
Moreover, they had a significantly lower HRQoL (p<0.001) compared with their pre-COVID-19 status. |
Tomar BS et al. |
10.2147/IJGM.S295499. |
2021 |
India |
October - November 2020 |
To investigate the prevalence of different symptoms in the post- acute care phase in COVID-19. |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any other body structure and function-generic (s/b) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
50 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Clinical characteristics |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The most common symptoms at the baseline were fever (94%), cough (78%) and breathlessness (68%), showed
by the 50 COVID-19 patients in the acute care facility. At the follow-up evaluation after discharge
(range 15 to 50 days), 82% showed at least one persistent symptom, where fatigue was the most common one
(74%), followed by breathlessness (44%), and muscle weakness (36%). Thus, authors concluded that
patients discharged from the acute COVID care facility had a high prevalence of post-COVID symptoms even
after 14 days. |
Townsend L |
10.1371/journal.
pone.0247280 |
2021 |
Republic of Ireland |
From August to October 2020 |
To investigate the presence of autonomic dysfunction following SARS-CoV-2 infection and its relationship
with post-COVID fatigue. |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Cardiovascular functions (Blood pressure b420) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
40 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Chalder Fatigue Scale, Ewing’s autonomic function test battery |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study presents a comprehensive autonomic assessment of patients with post-COVID fatigue and
contextualise the results with matched non-fatigued COVID survivors at a median of 166 days following
infection.
The authors found no objective findings of autonomic dysfunction, with no significant pathological
differences noted between groups in any of the Ewing’s battery parameters. They also demonstrate a
significant symptom burden, with 70% of fatigued patients reporting symptoms at the time of the active
stand, but these were independent of neurocardiovascular changes. Fatigue was strongly associated with
increased anxiety, with no patients having a pre-existing diagnosis of anxiety. . Finally, they
demonstrate the impact of post-COVID fatigue on daily function, with 35% of the fatigued cohort not yet
returned to full-time employment. |
Walle-Hansen MM et al. |
10.1186/s12877-021-02140-x
|
2021 |
Norway |
From March 1 to July 1, 2020 |
To study age related change in HR-QoL, functional status and mortality among patients aged 60 years and
older after hospitalisation due to COVID-19. |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Nervous system structures (s1) and related functions (Sensory functions and pain b2) |
Chronic |
COVID-19 |
216 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
EQ-5D-5L, MoCA, SPPB, mortality |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The study investigated hospitalized COVID-19 at a 6 months follow up. Out of 216 patients contacted, 171
were still alive (21% 6-months mortality) and 106 attended the follow-up. More than half patients (57
patients) reported a decrease in EQ-5D-5L scores after 6 months, with no difference between older (75
years old more) and younger patients (60-75 years old). Forty-six participants (43%) reported a negative
change in cognitive function compared to before the COVID-19 hospitalisation. |
Wu et al. |
10.1016/j.ijid.2021.04.020
|
2021 |
China |
January 2020 - January 2021 |
To evaluate the respiratory and physical functions of patients who retested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA
during post-COVID-19 rehabilitation. |
Analytical: Cohort study |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Respiratory structures (s430) and related functions (Respiration b440-455) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
302 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
mMRC dyspnea scale, Borg rating of perceived exertion, MMT |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The study compares mMRC, Borg, and MMT scores in re-detectable positive (23) and non re-detectable
positive (279) COVID-19 patients at 2 weeks after discharge. There were no differences in the quoted
scores between groups at the follow-up evaluations (at 14 days and at 6 months after discharge). The
proportion of patients using antiviral drugs in the re-detectable positive group was significantly lower
than those non re-detectable positive (78.3% vs 95.4%; p=0.003). The authors concluded that the
prognoses of re-detectable positive and not-re-detectable positive patients are not different in terms
of respiratory and physical function. at in the follow-up evaluations. |
Zampogna E et al. |
10.1159/000514387. |
2021 |
Italy |
April - August 2020 |
To evaluate the effectiveness of pulmonary rehabilitation in hospitalized patients consecutively
admitted to an in-patient pulmonary rehabilitation
program after COVID-19 |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
Specialized postacute rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Any Activity limitation and participation restriction (d) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
140 |
N/A |
Pulmonary rehabilitation tailored to the individual patient according to age, clinical severity, length
of immobilization, comorbidities, starting from a minimum of one, 20-min daily session up to two-three,
30-min daily sessions |
N/A |
BI, SPPB, 6MWT |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
140 COVID-19 patients were admitted to inpatient rehabilitation after 47 days of acute care , on
average. A high proportion of patients had undergone
mechanical ventilation either invasive or NIV. At admission, 6.2% of patients still had a tracheostomy,
7.1% were still under NIV, and 23.8% still used oxygen supplementation. After a mean LOS in
rehabilitation of 24 days, they showed a significant improvement in SPPB (from 0.5 to 7; p<0.001) and BI
(from 55 to 95; p<0.001). The proportion of patients unable at admission to stand, rise from a chair
and walk was significantly reduced (p < 0.00). Pulmonary rehabilitation is feasible and effective in
patients recovering from COVID-19. |
Zazzara MB |
10.1093/ageing/afaa223 |
2021 |
UK |
March-May 2020 |
To assess how frailty affects presenting COVID-19 symptoms in older adults. |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Nervous system structures (s1) and related functions (Mental functions b1) |
Acute |
COVID-19 |
857 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Frailty was classified as a binary variable: CFS ≥ 5 = frail; CFS < 5=not frail for the hospital cohort;
PRISMA7 ≥ 3=frail; PRISMA7 < 3=not frail in the community-based cohort |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
This study analyzed data of presenting COVID-19 symptoms from 2 cohorts of patients: hospitalized older
patients (n = 322, 51% were frail) and community-dwelling older people who submitted data via the COVID
Symptom Study mobile application (n = 535, 36% were frail).
In the Hospital cohort, there was a significantly higher prevalence of probable delirium in the frail
sample (38% of frail and 12% of non-frail patients), with no difference in fever or cough. In the
Community-based cohort, there was a significantly higher prevalence of possible delirium in frailer
(49%), older adults, and fatigue and shortness of breath.
This study demonstrates that the prevalence of probable delirium is significantly higher in frail
compared to non-frail older adults with COVID-19, highlighting both that a frailty assessment is
fundamental and a systematic evaluation of change in mental status needs to be included when assessing
this population. |
Zhu S et al. |
10.1371/journal.pone.0243883 |
2020 |
China |
From February 21 to April 7, 2020. |
To estimate the prevalence of disability and anxiety in Covid-19 survivors at discharge from hospital
and analyze relative risk by exposures. |
Descriptive: Historical cohort |
N/A |
Epidemiology - Natural history/Determining and modifying factors |
Nervous system structures (s1) and related functions (Mental functions b1) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
432 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Clinical data, IADL, BI, Zung’s self-reported anxiety scale |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
At hospital discharge, COVID-19 subjects presented at least one IADL problem in 36.81%. ADL dependence
was present in 16.44% and 28.70% were screened positive for clinical anxiety. A significant proportion
of COVID-19 survivors had disability and anxiety at discharge from hospital. Disease severity was the
only independent risk factor with consistent adverse effects on all outcomes. |
Zifko et al. |
10.1016/j.jns.2021.117438
|
2021 |
Austria |
March - April 2020 |
To describe neurological symptoms occurring during a COVID-19 infection and determine the pattern of
symptoms by comparing outpatients with inpatients |
Analytical: Cross-sectional study |
Specialized postacute rehabilitation |
Epidemiology - Prevalence |
Nervous system structures (s1) and related functions (Sensory functions and pain b2) |
Post-acute |
COVID-19 |
82 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Neurological symptoms |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Neurological symptoms were found in 32/40 inpatients (80%) and in 36/42 outpatients (86%), without
differences between groups. The most common symptoms were fatigue (53% for inpatients and 55% for
outpatients) and headache (33% for inpatients and 29% for outpatients), followed by loss of taste (31%),
and loss of smell (27%). The onset could be clearly defined only in 41 patients with neurological
symptoms (36 outpatients and 5 inpatients) and was on the first or second day of COVID-19 illness, in
63.4% of cases. A more severe course of disease was correlated with age and male sex, but age was not
identified as a predictor for the occurrence of neurological symptoms. Women suffered from central and
neuromuscular symptoms more often than men (p = 0,004).
Pre-existing dementia was associated with increased lethality; similarly, pre-existing stroke was
associated with a more severe course of Covid-19 infection. Hallucinations and confusion were related to
an increased likelihood of death. |