Efeitos de um programa de treinamento físico por aplicativo na capacidade funcional de indivíduos com COVID-longa- ensaio clínico, randomizado e cego

Abstract

Introduction: Long COVID is a health condition characterized by multisystemic symptoms, notably fatigue and dyspnea, which may lead to a reduction in the functional capacity of affected individuals. Physical exercise has been recognized as an effective strategy to improve functional capacity; however, adherence to this practice remains limited due to factors such as lack of time and difficulties accessing in-person activities. In this context, it becomes relevant to innovate rehabilitation methods by incorporating technological tools, such as mobile exercise applications. Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of physical training delivered through a mobile app on the functional capacity of individuals affected by long COVID. Methodology: This is a randomized, controlled, and blinded clinical trial involving 31 individuals with long COVID reporting fatigue and dyspnea. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the Control group received a booklet with physical activity recommendations based on the guidelines of the Brazilian Ministry of Health, and the Experimental group underwent physical training through the Recovery App. Using the app, participants performed physical exercises three times per week for 12 weeks, totaling 36 sessions of approximately 40 minutes each. Control group participants performed the exercises with the same frequency as the experimental group. Functional capacity was assessed before and after the intervention period using the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), the Sit-to-Stand Test, and the Glittre Activities of Daily Living test (Glittre ADL test). In addition, specific questionnaires were applied to assess levels of fatigue, dyspnea, the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status Scale (PCFS), and exercise adherence. Results: There were significant improvements in the performance of the Glittre ADL test (from 237 seconds pre-intervention to 217 seconds post-intervention) and the Sit-to-Stand test (from 18 repetitions pre-intervention to 20 repetitions post-intervention). However, there was no significant improvement in the distance covered in the 6-Minute Walk Test (from 454 meters pre-intervention to 468 meters post-intervention) or in the fatigue, dyspnea, PCFS, and exercise adherence questionnaires in the Experimental group. Conclusion: The exercise program delivered through the app led to functional improvements in activities of daily living and muscle strength. Low adherence may have limited the effects of the intervention