Experiences of people with Long Covid with a digital physiotherapy intervention: A qualitative study

• Published in: Health expectations : an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy 2024-04, Vol.27 (2), p.e13993-n/a
• Main Authors: Estebanez‐Pérez, María‐José, Martín‐Valero, Rocío, Pastora‐Estebanez, Pablo, Pastora‐Bernal, José‐Manuel
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Access; Activities of daily living; Clinical research; Clinical trials; Complications; Content analysis; COVID-19; Data acquisition; Data collection; digital physiotherapy intervention; Exercise Therapy - methods; experience; Health education; Health needs; Health services; Helping behavior; Humans; Intervention; Interviews; Long COVID; Mobile phones; New technology; Original; Patients; perception; Perceptions; Physical therapists; Physical therapy; Physical Therapy Modalities; Physiotherapy; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome; Public health; Qualitative analysis; qualitative method; Qualitative research; Quality of Life; Sick leave; Video teleconferencing; Waiting lists
• ISSN: 1369-6513; 1369-7625; 1369-7625
• DOI: 10.1111/hex.13993

Purpose Long Covid syndrome is a multiorgan condition with multiple sequelae affecting quality of life, capacity to work and daily activities. The advantages that new technologies can offer are presented as an opportunity in the current healthcare framework. Objective This research aimed to explore people with Long Covid's experiences with a digital physiotherapy practice intervention, during four weeks. Methods Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted by video call. Thirty‐two Long Covid participants were invited to join an in‐depth interview once the intervention was completed. Participants were queried on their intervention experiences and perceptions, as well as any lifestyle changes made, as a result of receiving digital physiotherapy practice. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using inductive qualitative content analysis. Results In‐depth qualitative analysis has revealed four themes that reflect participants' perceptions of digital physiotherapy intervention. The helpfulness of the exercises, interaction with the physiotherapist, the domestic use of technology and the future of digital health practice were the topics highlighted by Long Covid participants. Some improvements have been suggested including video sounds and the need to introduce face‐to‐face sessions. Participants stated that interventions were helpful and superior to printed exercise sheets, mobile phone apps and usual care received. This intervention did not present major barriers, highlighting the importance of personalized care and continuity in the provision of health services. Conclusion The digital physiotherapy practice is perceived by people with Long Covid as an appropriate method for the care of their health needs. Participants stated the need for this type of intervention in the public health system, where it would eliminate waiting lists, facilitate accessibility and improve existing care. Patient and Public Contribution Participants contributed to the interpretation of the data acquired in the interview. Clinical Trial Registration Trial registration NCT04742946.