Implementation of a rehabilitation program in a virtual reality for post-covid-19 patients - preliminary results

Abstract

This study aims to present the preliminary results of a novel rehabilitation program for post-
COVID-19 patients that incorporates virtual reality (VR). The study included 20 patients who
had previously been affected by SARS-CoV-2 and participated in inpatient pulmonary
rehabilitation. These patients were randomly divided into either a VR group or a control group.
The both the VR group and the control group participated in the same rehabilitation program,
which consisted of exercise capacity training on a cycle ergometer, breathing exercises,
resistance and general fitness training, and relaxation. Each training component was
performed once a day. The groups that participated differed based on the training settings
they received on the cycle ergometer and relaxation training. The study assessed exercise
tolerance (6MWT), lung function (FEV1, FVC, TLC, FEV1%VC), stress levels (PSS-10), quality of
life (WHOQOL-BREF), likewise anxiety and depression symptoms (HADS). The results showed
that the VR group had a statistically significant improvement in all of the functional capacity
tests compared to the control group. The VR group also had a statistically significant
improvement in quality of life compared to the control group. These results suggest that the
inclusion of VR in rehabilitation programs may be beneficial for post-COVID-19 patients.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24040/sjss.2022.8.2.77-89