Experiences with Qi and changes in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) symptoms with qigong: a qualitative analysis of participants’ experiences in a pilot clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Commonly known as “long COVID”, post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) is a chronic condition with no validated treatment that significantly impacts the quality of life of those affected. Qigong is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice that may serve as a possible therapeutic approach for PASC. This study explored participants’ experiences with qi, and changes in PASC symptoms, following participation in a clinical trial of group-based, combined external and internal qigong for individuals with PASC. Methods: A qualitative study of 26 individuals who participated in a pilot feasibility trial of qigong for PASC symptoms was performed. Participants engaged in six weekly, two-hour sessions of external and internal qigong delivered in a group-based format. Upon completion of the intervention, all participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were transcribed, coded and analyzed using a conventional content analysis approach to explore participants’ perceptions and understanding of qi, qigong, and the overall impact of the sessions on their well-being and PASC symptoms. Results: Participants’ understanding and explanations of qi varied. Almost all participants (92%) reported feeling qi during the sessions, and a variety of different sensations associated with perception of qi were described. Approximately three-quarters of participants experienced improvement in one or more PASC symptoms, most commonly fatigue, “brain fog”, and sleep quality, and 85% reported improved well-being. Additionally, participants frequently cited the group-based nature of the intervention as a positive aspect of their experience. Conclusions: The qigong intervention was well-received by participants, with the majority perceiving qi and reporting improvements in PASC-related symptoms and overall well-being. These findings suggest that many individuals may be able to perceive qi and that group-delivered combined external and internal qigong may be a beneficial complementary therapy for managing PASC symptoms. As this is a pilot study with a small sample size and a single qigong teacher, results must be interpreted cautiously. Further research is warranted to evaluate the effects of qigong in this patient population. Trial registration: Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov. Trial Registration Number: NCT05675995. Date of Registration: January 4, 2023.