Health resort-based versus home-based rehabilitation for post-COVID-19 syndrome

Background Post-COVID-19 syndrome, presents a significant rehabilitation challenge due to the multifaceted nature of symptoms, including dyspnea, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction. Objectives This study aimed to compare the effect of an intensive Health Resort-based rehabilitation program versus a monitored home-based rehabilitation program in patients with Post-COVID-19 syndrome. Methods Patients with confirmed Post-COVID-19 syndrome were assigned to either a Health Resort-based rehabilitation program ( N = 33), which included inhalation therapy, aquatic and land-based exercises; or a home-based rehabilitation program ( N = 33). Assessments were performed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Outcome measures included quality of life, perceived dyspnea, motor function, perceived pain, fatigue, psychological status and cognitive function. Results Linear mixed effects regression model analysis revealed that both interventions improved symptoms. Statistically significant time-by-group interactions indicated that the Health Resort-based rehabilitation group achieved greater improvements compared to the home-based rehabilitation group in perceived dyspnea, bilateral hand grip strength, and anxiety. Both groups showed comparable improvements in fatigue, pain, functional limitations due to dyspnea, lower limb function, cognitive function, and quality of life, with benefits maintained during follow-up. Conclusions Both Health Resort-based and home-based rehabilitation are effective modalities of care delivery for Post-COVID-19 syndrome management, where integrated and multimodal interventions are required, with the Health Resort-based rehabilitation option providing additional benefits.