Resistance Exercise Program Is Feasible and Effective in Improving Functional Strength in Post-COVID Survivors.

Background: Evidence suggests that COVID-19 infection can cause lasting health consequences. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation services have been recommended to reduce the sequalae. However, the effectiveness of physical exercise interventions remains insufficiently documented. The aim of this study was to develop and implement a specific and well-tolerated protocol-based intervention to reduce muscle weakness in older adults impacted by COVID-19. Methods: Forty-six older adults were randomized into intervention and control groups. Isometric and isokinetic strength assessments were conducted for selected muscle groups using a JBA Staniak® torquemeter and Biodex System 3 dynamometer. Functional abilities were evaluated with the Time Up and Go test and Chair Stand Tests. Results: Men in the intervention group demonstrated a significant improvement in static conditions for knee flexors (KFs), trunk extensors (TEs) and trunk flexors (TFs) and in dynamic conditions for knee extensors (KEs). Women in the intervention group showed a significant improvement in static conditions for EFs, KFs, TEs and TFs and in dynamic conditions for a KE and a KF. The interaction GROUP × TESTING SESSION was significant for the Chair Test (s) and Chair Test (n). Conclusions: Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of a well-tolerated, protocol-based approach that can be used to diminish long-lasting functional deficits in post-COVID survivors.

The EdUReP model for nonsurgical management of tendinopathy.

Tendinopathy is a common and substantial source of morbidity worldwide. Various anatomical and functional predispositions combine with abrupt changes in mechanical loading to cause characteristic histological maladaptations in tendons. The nature and latency of cellular changes in tendinopathy makes many common treatments less-than-optimal options. This Perspective presents the EdUReP model for nonsurgical management of tendinopathy, a model that considers sources of pathology at the cellular, anatomical, and functional levels. The EdUReP model addresses possible sources of symptoms at the levels of pathology, impairment, functional limitation, and disability through Educational interventions, periods of tendon Unloading and controlled Reloading, and implementation of Prevention strategies. The EdUReP model is an evidence-based treatment construct that aims to reduce functional limitation and disability through amelioration of tissue pathology.