Effects of a respiratory and neurological rehabilitation treatment plan in post Covid-19 affected university students. Randomized clinical study

Abstract

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.Background: COVID-19 has been associated with neurological complications, including loss of smell and taste, in addition to respiratory issues. Rehabilitation targeting both respiratory and neurological functions is crucial for improving quality of life in affected patients. This study evaluates the efficacy of a combined pulmonary and neurological rehabilitation program.

Objectives: The study aims to reduce dyspnea, enhance exertional capacity, increase vital capacity and respiratory muscle strength, and improve olfactory and gustatory sensitivity in post-COVID-19 patients.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 220 COVID-19 patients, 200 of whom completed the study. Participants were divided into an intervention group (inspiratory training with Powerbreathe Plus®, aerobic exercise, and olfactory-gustatory treatment) and a control group, both for 31 days.

Results: Significant improvements were observed in the intervention group across spirometric variables (e.g., forced vital capacity, FEV1/FVC ratio, peak inspiratory pressure), dyspnea scales, and neurological variables related to smell and taste.

Conclusion: The respiratory rehabilitation program, combining Powerbreathe Plus®, aerobic exercise, and neurorehabilitation for smell and taste, proved to be an effective treatment for respiratory and neurological sequelae in post-COVID-19 patients.