Experiences of people with Long Covid with a digital physiotherapy intervention

A qualitative study

Bibliographic Data

ID19507911
AuthorsMaría‐José Estebanez‐Pérez (0000-0001-5537-7786, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science University of Malaga Málaga Spain, corresponding author), Rocío Martín‐Valero (Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science University of Malaga Málaga Spain), Pablo Pastora‐Estebanez (0000-0003-4629-4860, Department of Economy, Faculty of Economic and Business Sciences University of Málaga Málaga Spain), José‐Manuel Pastora‐Bernal (0000-0003-2108-9975, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science University of Malaga Málaga Spain)
Year2024
Volume27
Issue2
Pagese13993-e13993
Publication date2024-04-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueHealth Expectations (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1369-6513 • E-ISSN: 1369-7625
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/hex.13993
PMID38590093
OpenAlexW4394629651
LanguageEN
Citations received3
References cited33

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

Computer-assisted web interviewing · Digital health · Health care · Helpfulness · Medical education · mHealth · Psychological intervention · Qualitative research · Telemedicine · Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Research · Intensive Care Unit Cognitive Disorders · Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 · Medicine · Nursing · Psychology · Social Psychology

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