Physical Activity in Long COVID: A Comparative Study of Exercise Rehabilitation Benefits in Patients with Long COVID, Coronary Artery Disease and Fibromyalgia

Abstract

Exercise in long COVID is poorly studied. Nevertheless, exerciserehabilitation could improve cardiorespiratory, muscular and autonomic functions. We aimed to investigate improvement in physical and autonomic performances of long COVID patients (n = 38) after a 4-week exercise rehabilitation program (3 sessions/week) compared to two control groups composed of coronary artery disease (n = 38) and fibromyalgia patients (n = 38), two populations for whom exercise benefits are well known. Efficacy of exercise training was assessed by a cardiopulmonary exercise test, a handgrip force test, and a supine heart rate variability recording at rest before and after the rehabilitation program. Cardiorespiratory and muscular parameters were enhanced after exercise rehabilitation in the three groups (p < 0.001). No significant difference was observed for the autonomic variables. Through this comparative study with control groups, we confirm and reinforce the interest of caring for long COVID patients without post-exertional symptom exacerbation by exercise rehabilitation of both strength and endurance training, by personalizing the program to the patient and symptoms.

Gender differences in symptomatology, socio-demographic information and quality of life in Spanish population with long COVID condition: a cross-sectional study

“…Although different methodologies were used, both concluded that long COVID influences the quality of life of those with the disease hindering same. It is important to note that, although they are distinct entities, long COVID shares some similarities in terms of symptoms and challenges in diagnosis and treatment with other conditions, such as fibromyalgia ( 15 , 38 , 39 ). Furthermore, studies have also shown that long COVID, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome are more prevalent among females ( 40 , 41 ).…”

Whole-Body Cryostimulation in Post-COVID Rehabilitation for Patients with Obesity: A Multidisciplinary Feasibility Study

“…Several studies have focused on developing the most appropriate exercise protocol for patients with PCC, ranging from strength and endurance exercises to combined aerobic and resistance training [22,50,51], which can be varied in intensity and duration, and all show improvements in functional capacity [17,52].…”

“…Other studies have reported that patients with prolonged COVID symptoms are more likely to have obesity and any obesity degree (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2 ) was associated with a worse PCC prognosis [16]. Thus, an intensive multidisciplinary, tailored rehabilitation approach is required to maximize the patient's functional recovery and facilitate the returning to premorbid life, especially when PCC symptoms appear to persist or even worsen in susceptible individuals [17].…”