Physical activity and sedentariness levels in patients with post-exertional malaise resulting from post-COVID-19 syndrome

TL;DR

This study explores how physical activity and sedentary behavior change in people with post-COVID-19 syndrome who experience post-exertional malaise.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into how PEM affects physical activity levels and sedentariness in post-COVID-19 patients.

Findings

Individuals with PEM became more sedentary and less physically active after contracting COVID-19.

Women and those with more severe PEM experienced greater declines in work-related physical activity.

Fear of malaise and recovery pace influenced changes in physical activity post-COVID-19.

Abstract

Post-exertional malaise (PEM) is a complex phenomenon characterized by extreme fatigue, reduced endurance, and muscular and joint pains. Physical activity (PA) has recognized health benefits, including reducing the risks of chronic diseases and mortality. During the pandemic, a general decline in PA was measured, but the profile of the various components of PA and sedentariness in patients with PEM resulting from post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS-19) remains scarce. It is relevant to observe the impact of these discomforts on PQ after their occurrence.

This study examines the detailed PA and sedentary profile of individuals affected by PEM associated with PCS-19.

An online questionnaire disseminated via social media platform evaluated PA and sedentariness before and after COVID-19 diagnostic.

Individuals with PEM (n = 154) became more sedentary and inactive post-COVID-19. Specifically, PA at work decreased in women and those whose last infection occurred over a year ago. Walk decreased for women but increased for men. Bike journeys generally decreased after COVID-19. The severity of PEM, the pace of recovery, and fear of malaise influenced PA changes.

The PCS-19 leads to increased sedentary behavior and a decline in PA, particularly at work, and is more pronounced among women and those more severely affected by PEM. These findings are critical for post-COVID PA resumption, including for workers who go back to work and who regain normal duties while being potentially deconditioned.

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