O método pilates como recurso terapêutico na síndrome pós-covid-19

Abstract

The novel coronavirus was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. The virus spread internationally within 1 month of first identification and can be transmitted through close human-to-human contact. The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. In addition to lung deficiencies, COVID-19 survivors often suffer from neuromuscular complications, muscle weakness, fatigue, pain, joint problems, neurological, cognitive and psychological changes. There is still little evidence and guidance available on the best ways to rehabilitate these patients. This highlights the need for studies on respiratory and physical-functional rehabilitation for these individuals. The objective was to evaluate the benefits of physiotherapeutic intervention using the Pilates method compared to home guidelines on the cardiorespiratory function and physical conditioning of individuals with sequelae resulting from COVID-19 infection. This is a double-blind randomized clinical trial type study. The sample consisted of 39 individuals with Post-COVID Syndrome, who met the inclusion criteria of the present study. Demographic data and investigation of the clinical picture of COVID-19 were assessed through questionnaires. Physical fitness was assessed using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and cardiorespiratory capacity was assessed using thoracic cirtometry, manuvacuometry and microspirometry. Afterwards, the two groups were divided randomly and blindly, 20 in the pilates group (GP) and 19 in the control group (CG). The Pilates method was carried out in the Pilates Laboratory of the Physiotherapy course at the University of Passo Fundo. The intervention time was two months, with interventions carried out twice a week. The control group was evaluated and received a booklet with instructions to be carried out during the same period. The average age was 52.35 years in the GP and 43.26 years in the CG. The majority were female. Fever, headache, pain and myalgia, anxiety, fatigue, cardiovascular symptoms, pain and muscle weakness were the most cited post-COVID symptoms among the groups. There was a significant improvement in chest expansion in the GP, while in the CG there was a significant improvement in the assessment of respiratory muscle strength. In the 6MWT, the GP showed a decrease in perceived effort after finishing the test, while the CG only showed a decrease at rest before the test. In relation to the distance covered, the GP showed a significant increase in the distance covered in relation to the CG. Physiotherapy is an excellent ally in preventing, promoting and maintaining the health and quality of life of the general population. The use of the Pilates method, associated with technological equipment for evaluation, allows a more detailed analysis and treatment of lung conditions, strength, function and mobility, proving to be beneficial for this type of population.