COVID-19: Short and long-term effects of hospitalization on muscular weakness in the elderly

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has recently been the cause of a global public health emergency. Frequently, elderly patients experience a marked loss of muscle mass and strength during hospitalization, resulting in a significant functional decline. This paper describes the impact of prolonged immobilization and current pharmacological treatments on muscular metabolism. In addition, the scientific evidence for an early strength intervention, neuromuscular electrical stimulation or the application of heat therapy during hospitalization to help prevent COVID-19 functional sequels is analyzed. This review remarks the need to: (1) determine which potential pharmacological interventions have a negative impact on muscle quality and quantity; (2) define a feasible and reliable pharmacological protocol to achieve a balance between desired and undesired medication effects in the treatment of this novel disease; (3) implement practical strategies to reduce muscle weakness during bed rest hospitalization and (4) develop a specific, early and safe protocol-based care of functional interventions for older adults affected by COVID-19 during and after hospitalization.