[Respiratory physiotherapy in post-acute COVID-19 adult patients: Systematic review of literature]

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Patients with SARS-CoV-2 present signs and symptoms that primarily involve the respiratory system. The sequelae result in impaired quality of life, pneumonia, dyspnea, fatigue, and joint pain. OBJECTIVE: To sustain with scientific evidence the importance of respiratory physiotherapy and its effects on post-acute COVID-19 adult patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in four databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect). The searching period was carried out in February 2021 with a total of one 1229 potential studies. Finally, 5 studies that met the eligibility criteria were included two clinical trials, two case reports and one cross-sectional study. The methodological quality of the articles was evaluated. RESULTS: Respiratory muscle training, targeted breathing, and strength training provide significant data of improvement of functional performance. Evidence shows positive effects of respiratory physiotherapy in post-acute COVID-19 adult patients, since it increases resistance to exercise, it decreases fatigue, reduces dyspnea, improves functionality and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: More future studies, such as randomized controlled trials, studies including lower age range groups, and individualized approaches, need to be developed.