Rehabilitation and Pacing for Long COVID

This trial aims to identify the best methods to help people with Long COVID improve their exercise capacity and manage daily activities. It tests two main treatments: personalized cardiopulmonary rehabilitation (a tailored exercise program) and structured pacing (a method to manage activity levels). These treatments focus on reducing symptoms such as extreme tiredness and shortness of breath following even light activity. Individuals who have had COVID-19 and continue to experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or significant tiredness after simple tasks for at least 12 weeks may be suitable candidates for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to enhance understanding of effective treatments for Long COVID symptoms.

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are currently using a formal program similar to the study interventions, you may need a washout period (time without taking certain medications) as per the trial's appendices.

Research has shown that personalized heart and lung rehabilitation is generally well-received by patients recovering from severe COVID-19, significantly improving heart and lung function. This treatment includes customized exercise plans with safe levels of strength and endurance exercises.

Structured pacing helps manage energy levels and reduce tiredness after activity, known as post-exertional malaise (PEM). While specific safety data for structured pacing in long COVID patients remains limited, this gentle approach aims to manage symptoms by gradually increasing activity levels.

Researchers are excited about these treatments for Long COVID because they offer personalized, non-pharmacological approaches that specifically target different aspects of the condition. The Structured Pacing protocol is designed to help manage post-exertional malaise (PEM) by teaching patients how to balance their activity levels, which is a fresh approach compared to traditional medication or general advice. On the other hand, the Personalized Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation focuses on improving exercise tolerance through tailored physical therapy, a more individualized approach than standard exercise programs. These treatments aim to provide targeted relief for Long COVID symptoms, potentially leading to more effective management strategies.

This trial will compare two approaches for managing long-term COVID-19 symptoms. Research has shown that personalized cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, which participants in this trial may receive, can significantly improve the health of people recovering from severe COVID-19 by increasing exercise ability, reducing tiredness, and enhancing quality of life. Another treatment option in this trial is a structured pacing plan, which has proven effective in reducing the frequency and severity of post-exertional malaise (PEM), a condition where individuals feel very tired after activity. These findings suggest that both approaches may help those with long-term COVID-19 symptoms manage their symptoms better and improve their daily lives.²⁶⁷⁸⁹