-
1.
Outcome of survivors of COVID-19 in the intermediate phase of recovery: A case report.
Fourie, M, van Aswegen, H
The South African journal of physiotherapy. 2022;(1):1751
Abstract
Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral respiratory disease and is associated with significant morbidity in the intermediate and chronic phases of recovery from the disease. The health benefits of respiratory and extremity muscle strengthening exercise therapy are well-described for those with cardiac failure and interstitial lung disease and are suggested to improve functional ability for patients recovering from COVID-19. The aim of this case report is to share the effects of standard physiotherapy management on exercise endurance, respiratory function and return to work, implemented for patients with COVID-19 in the intermediate phase of their recovery. Patient presentation: Two cases of COVID-19 were admitted to a private healthcare facility in Johannesburg. They presented with shortness of breath and decreased endurance. One had COVID-19 myocarditis and the other chronic post-COVID-19 organising pneumonia with pulmonary fibrosis. Management and outcome: Both patients were admitted to ICU, provided oxygen therapy and supportive care as well as physiotherapy management in hospital and after hospital discharge. Physiotherapy management included inspiratory muscle training therapy, and cardiovascular and resistance exercise therapy. Improvements in peak expiratory flow rate and six-minute walk distance were observed for both cases at 6- and 7-months follow-up, respectively. Conclusion: Our case report illustrates the value of ongoing physiotherapy management, utilising progressive exercise therapy prescription, to aid the return to optimal functioning for survivors of COVID-19 in the intermediate phase of their recovery.
-
2.
Rapid resolution of COVID-19 after faecal microbiota transplantation.
Biliński, J, Winter, K, Jasiński, M, Szczęś, A, Bilinska, N, Mullish, BH, Małecka-Panas, E, Basak, GW
Gut. 2022;(1):230-232
-
3.
Changes in Upper-Body Muscular Strength and Power in Paralympic Swimmers: Effects of Training Confinement during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Cavaggioni, L, Rossi, A, Tosin, M, Scurati, R, Michielon, G, Alberti, G, Merati, G, Formenti, D, Trecroci, A
International journal of environmental research and public health. 2022;(9)
Abstract
The aim of this case series was to evaluate the effectiveness of a dry-land home-training program conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic period in Paralympic swimmers. Previous evidence showed the importance of muscular strength and power training for Paralympic swimmers due to the positive relationship between severity of impairment, swimming technique and biomechanics parameters. Specifically, we aimed to analyze: (i) the effects of a customized training regime conducted pre, during and post restrictions on upper-body muscular strength and power (one repetition maximum, mean propulsive velocity, and mean relative propulsive power) compared to a regular gym-based program; (ii) the associations between mean propulsive velocity and load during two upper body exercises in order to estimate the one repetition maximum. Four elite Paralympic swimmers were retrospectively analyzed in upper-body muscular strength, mean propulsive velocity and mean relative propulsive power in bench press and lat pull-down exercises at three time points: T0 (prior the Lockdown period), T1 (immediately after the Lockdown confinement), T2 (sixteen weeks after returning to gym training). Our findings suggest a very likely decrement in one repetition maximum, mean propulsive velocity, and mean relative propulsive power during the Lockdown period compared with the T0 period with a subsequent very likely increment in one repetition maximum after returning to gym training (T2) compared with the lockdown period (T0). Conversely, mean relative propulsive power showed an unclear improvement in all athletes in T2 compared with T1. These results were also corroborated by the Friedman's test followed by the Dunn's pairwise comparison that mainly showed a decrement from T0 to T1 (p < 0.05). At the same time, it appears that muscle strength and power could be rapidly restored close to the pre-lockdown levels following an adequate training program in the gym, albeit without significance (p > 0.05). Finally, the close relationship between mean propulsive velocity and load in bench press and lat pull-down exercises was also confirmed in para swimming, making a possible estimation of one repetition maximum.
-
4.
Severe Post-COVID-19 dysautonomia: a case report.
Bosco, J, Titano, R
BMC infectious diseases. 2022;(1):214
Abstract
BACKGROUND The emergence of dysautonomia as a consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2; or COVID-19) is becoming more prevalent. We have seen evidence in several post-COVID patients and in the literature of varying degrees of autonomic dysfunction. Symptoms, among others, include inappropriate tachycardia, sweating, anxiety, insomnia and blood pressure variability from the effects of excessive catecholamine, as well as cognitive impairment, fatigue, headaches and orthostatic intolerance from decreased brain perfusion. CASE PRESENTATION We present a case of severe dysautonomia in a previously healthy 27-year-old runner. About five weeks after her initial mild COVID-19 infection, the patient began to develop weakness, which progressed into severe post-exertional fatigue, slowed cognition, headaches, blurred vision and generalized body aches. She also endorsed palpitations, especially when getting up from a seated or lying position as well as with mild exertion. She became reliant on her husband for help with her activities of daily living. Exam was significant for orthostasis; laboratory workup unremarkable. Over the following months, the patient's symptoms have improved slowly with fluid and sodium intake, compression stockings and participating in a graduated exercise program. CONCLUSIONS Dysautonomia as a consequence of infection with COVID-19 is becoming increasingly discussed, especially as more patients recover from COVID-19. This is a case of a non-hospitalized patient with a mild initial presentation and significant, debilitating dysautonomia symptoms. More research on its pathophysiology, especially in relation to a precedent viral insult, as well as its treatment, is needed.
-
5.
Cognitive and Functional Abilities in an Older Adult Veteran Before and After Contracting COVID-19.
Okolichany, R, Padala, PR, Mooney, S
Journal of Alzheimer's disease reports. 2022;(1):115-120
Abstract
Background: A 76-year-old male Veteran with a historical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment was assessed at baseline and follow-up as part of two separate, ongoing studies. He was diagnosed with COVID-19 during the interim. Objective: To report potential effects on cognitive and functional abilities measured before and after contracting COVID-19. Methods: The patient was administered a series of cognitive tests and self-report procedures assessing cognitive, functional, and neuropsychiatric status. Results: Overall, no discernable pattern of cognitive changes between pre-COVID and post-COVID assessments were noted. Only mild increases in agitation, depression, and irritability were noted on a self-report measure. However, this particular subject has relatively ideal psychosocial circumstances in comparison to the typical older adult Veteran male. It is hypothesized that improved psychosocial conditions will result in less negative cognitive and functional outcomes for older adults diagnosed with COVID-19. Conclusion: High levels of resilience, social support, and exercise, coupled with lower levels of perceived stress and loneliness may serve as protective factors against cognitive and functional decline in older adults who contract COVID-19.
-
6.
A Case of Iliopsoas Hematoma Caused by Prophylactic Anticoagulation against COVID-19.
Masaki, S, Takahashi, T, Sahara, T, Endo, R, Obana, M
Progress in rehabilitation medicine. 2022;:20220004
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), and prophylactic anticoagulation is recommended for the prevention of VTE in COVID-19 patients. We encountered a patient with COVID-19 who developed iliopsoas hematoma (IPH) that was likely caused by prophylactic anticoagulation against VTE; we report the case here because IPH is an important risk in rehabilitation treatment. CASE The patient was a 73-year-old man with severe COVID-19 who received anticoagulation therapy from the time of admission (day 0). On day 22, decreased hemoglobin levels, muscle weakness in the left lower extremity, and pain on passive movement of the left hip joint were noted. On day 29, computed tomography (CT) was performed and revealed a mass lesion suspicious of a hematoma in the left iliopsoas muscle. On day 36, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was carried out to re-evaluate the mass lesion and revealed a multicystic lesion that could also have been an abscess. CT-guided puncture drainage was performed, but no pus-like material was collected; this finding led to a diagnosis of IPH. Subsequent exercise loads were gradually increased while the status of the hematoma was assessed. DISCUSSION The prevalence of IPH in COVID-19 patients has been reported to be 7.6 cases per 1000 admissions, and the use of anticoagulation is likely to increase the risk of IPH. Because rehabilitative interventions can lead to the discovery or aggravation of IPH, the possibility of IPH should be kept in mind when providing rehabilitation treatment for COVID-19 patients.
-
7.
Multimodal ayurvedic approach in the management of moderate SARS-COV2 infection with co-morbidities - A case report.
Mythri, HS, Mahto, RR
Journal of family medicine and primary care. 2022;(1):344-349
-
-
Free full text
-
Abstract
Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic which has claimed more than 1.4 million lives as of today. This unprecedented period demands greatly for the traditional and native medical systems which are time-tested and holistic. Some of the recent studies have reported severe infection in individuals with comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, old age, etc. Ayurveda understands this condition as Agantuja Jwara of Sannipatika origin. Madhumeha (diabetes mellitus) is basically a disease of depleted Ojus (immunity) as per Ayurveda. Methods: Here, we report a case of COVID-19 in an elderly overweight patient with diabetes, which was managed successfully with Ayurvedic medicines, diet, lifestyle, yoga, and rejuvenative therapy. Case Description: A 70-year-old male consulted our physician through phone call and willfully wanted to take Ayurvedic management for COVID-19. On the 1st day of treatment, the patient complained of fever at 103 F, headache, and severe body ache. Later on, started with a cough, headache, shortness of breath, excessive thirst, etc. Based on the symptom cluster and food-exercise routine, Kapha and Pitta were the vitiated body humors. Results: After thorough Ayurvedic assessment, the patient was administered with Langhana, Pachana (procedures to improve digestive metabolism), anti-pyretic, and antidiabetic medications followed by yoga and pranayama. The patient was also advised rejuvenative therapy to prevent further post-COVID complications. Quality of Life was assessed with Quality of Life Instrument for Indian Diabetes Patients (QOLID) and EuroQol five-dimensional (EQ-5D). The patient was completely relieved from major symptoms in 4 days and tested negative after 12 days, with considerable improvement in QOL. The case was followed up for 60 days, and no post-COVID symptoms were reported.
-
8.
VLCKD in Combination with Physical Exercise Preserves Skeletal Muscle Mass in Sarcopenic Obesity after Severe COVID-19 Disease: A Case Report.
Camajani, E, Feraco, A, Basciani, S, Gnessi, L, Barrea, L, Armani, A, Caprio, M
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland). 2022;(3)
Abstract
The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity is increasing worldwide, with a strong impact on public health and the national health care system. Sarcopenic obesity consists of fat depot expansion and associated systemic low-grade inflammation, exacerbating the decline in skeletal muscle mass and strength. Dietary approach and physical exercise represent essential tools for reducing body weight and preserving muscle mass and function in subjects with sarcopenic obesity. This case report describes the effects of a dietary intervention, based on a Very-Low-Calorie Ketogenic Diet (VLCKD) combined with physical exercise, on body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, and muscle strength in a woman with sarcopenic obesity, two weeks after hospitalization for bilateral interstitial pneumonia due to COVID-19. To our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe the efficacy of a combined approach intervention including VLCKD along with physical exercise, in reducing fat mass, improving metabolic profile, and preserving skeletal muscle performance in a patient with obesity, soon after severe COVID-19 disease.
-
9.
Pulmonary fibrosis in a dog as a sequela of infection with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2? A case report.
Colitti, B, Manassero, L, Colombino, E, Ferraris, EI, Caccamo, R, Bertolotti, L, Bortolami, A, Bonfante, F, Papa, V, Cenacchi, G, et al
BMC veterinary research. 2022;(1):111
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interstitial lung disease is a heterogeneous group of conditions characterized by severe radiographic changes and clinicopathological findings. However, in the vast majority of cases, the cause remains unknown. CASE DESCRIPTION In the present study, we reported the clinical case of a 3 years old female Bull Terrier presented in October 2020 to the Advanced Diagnostic Imaging Department of the Turin Veterinary Teaching Hospital with a progressive pulmonary illness characterized by dyspnea, exercise intolerance, and a diffuse and severe pulmonary interstitial pattern at imaging investigations. Considering the clinical findings, the dog was included in a serological survey for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in companion animals, showing positive results. Due to the further clinical worsening, the owners opted for euthanasia. At necroscopy, dog showed severe and chronic bronchopneumonia compatible with a Canine Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and with serological features linked to a SARS-CoV-2 infection. CONCLUSIONS The comparison of these lesions with those reported in humans affected by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) supports the hypothesis that these findings may be attributable to the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a dog with breed predisposition to Canine Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (CIPF), although direct evidence of SARS-CoV-2 by molecular or antigenic approaches remained unsolved.
-
10.
The Development, Implementation, and Preliminary Outcomes of a 5-Minute Mindfulness Program to Improve Well-Being and Increase Connection Across a University Campus.
Nicksic Sigmon, CA, Bam, D, Moldow, E, Beary, S, Wakefield, K, Boeldt, DL
Journal of technology in behavioral science. 2022;(1):23-32
Abstract
Background: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, people worldwide have experienced increased anxiety, depression, and loneliness and decreased well-being. Mindfulness has been shown to enhance well-being across a variety of settings and for a variety of populations. Purpose: We developed and implemented a digital mindfulness program called Mindful Moment across a US university system as an innovative wellness resource to facilitate well-being and sense of connection among faculty, staff, and students. Attendees engaged in 5-minute live guided mindfulness sessions twice per week. This paper outlines our program evaluation over the course of four months. Methods: A total of 236 individuals attended between one to 30 mindful moment sessions. Data were collected on attendance, perception of the program's impact on attendee well-being and connectedness to the community, and feedback for future program development. Data collection included standardized stress and belongingness measures in addition to qualitative data related to perceived impact and reasons for attending. Results: Students, faculty, and staff who attended Mindful Moment and completed surveys reported that the program was easy to access, noted immediate benefits including decreased stress and improved well-being, and some attendees reported increased feelings of connection with the community. Conclusions: The present paper is exploratory in nature, a first step to assessing feasibility and overall impact. Future research assessing the impact of digital mindfulness programs can be improved by including a comparison group, additional standardized assessment, and a pre-post design, allowing for stronger conclusions to be drawn regarding efficacy and generalizability.
