Effectiveness of multi-stage breathing exercises in patients after COVID-associated pneumonia

The consequences of experienced COVID-associated pneumonia show it necessary to develop a phased set of rehabilitation measures to restore lung function, which can be implemented by patients, including those at home, after discharge from a healthcare facility. Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of designed multi-stage breathing exercises In patients who have experienced COVID-associated pneumonia. Subjects and methods. The Investigation Involved 30 patients (14 (46.66%) women and 16 (53.33%) men) aged 41 to 80years. The patients received a cycle of Individual therapeutic exercises according to the developed multistage breathing exercises In terms of the Initial physical capability level. The rehabilitation program was compiled after an objective assessment of a patlenfs current physical status. Allowance was made for the following Indicators: blood oxygen saturation (SpOJ level, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and subjective health assessment by a patient. The program provided for several successive load levels: transition to the next cycle step was made only If the Indicators SpO? HR, and RR were adequate for the current level, as well as In the absence of complaints associated with the Intensity of a set of gymnastic exercises. Results. After a rehabilitation cycle, the patients showed cardiovascular adaptations to Increasing physical activity: a significant decrease In HR from 87.0 (75.50; 97.75) to 80.50 (70.00; 84.75) per minute (p<0.0001); significant positive changes in Sp02 from 93.0 (90.25; 95.00) to 98.00 (96.25; 98.75)% (p<0.0001); formation of the correct pattern of respiration, i.e. a reduction In RR from 20.50 (19.00; 23.00) to 18.00 (17.00; 18.00) per minute (p<0.0001); and an Improvement In the Indicators of subjective assessment of exercise tolerance according to the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale. Conclusion. The effectiveness of the developed multi-stage breathing exercises has a positive impact on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of patients who have experienced COVID-assodated pneumonia, which is shown during a follow-up of Sp02, HR, and RR, and functional tests.