Prevalence and patterns of physical deconditioning and fatigue in post-COVID-19 patients: evidence from a case-control study

Background: Physical deconditioning and fatigue are increasingly recognized as a significant consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in individuals recovering from infection. The aim of the study was to determine the proportion, pattern and severity of physical deconditioning and fatigue among post-COVID-19 patients versus non-infected controls. Methods: Physical deconditioning and fatigue are increasingly recognized as a significant consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in individuals recovering from infection. This study aimed at determining the proportion, pattern and severity of physical deconditioning and fatigue among post-COVID-19 patients versus non-infected controls. Results: Demographically both groups were similar with male predominance in this study. Significantly higher proportions of fatigue (89.3% vs. 64.6%) and physical deconditioning (94.0% vs. 68.3%) were observed among cases compared to controls. Moderate to severe fatigue and higher grades of deconditioning were notably prevalent among cases, whereas controls reported milder symptoms. COVID-19 patients suffered more severe deconditioning across functional mobility, productivity. Conclusions: COVID-19 survivors exhibit a higher prevalence and greater severity of physical deconditioning and fatigue across daily life domains compared to non-infected individuals. Integration of comprehensive rehabilitation and early intervention is critical for optimizing recovery and restoring quality of life in affected patients.