Retrospective Analysis of Functional Capacity of Patients with COVID-19 using 1 Minute Sit to Stand Test: A Physiotherapist’s Perspective

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has spread at an alarming rate worldwide. Its dominant feature is arterial hypoxemia seen due to ventilation perfusion mismatch. This causes reduced oxygen diffusion that affects functional capacity. Six-minute walk test is one of the commonly used test which is used to assess functional ability. However, it is more time-consuming and requires a 30-m corridor which is not always easily available. Studies have shown that the 1-minute sit to stand test (1-MSTST) is also useful for assessing functional capacity of patients with respiratory dysfunction. The aim of the study was to understand COVID-19 patient’s response to 1-MSTST with respect to number of repetitions, oxygen saturation, heart rate and perceived rate of exertion. Statistically significant difference was seen in pre and post parameters of heart rate (Pre: 91.73 ±17.12, Post: 116.06 ± 20.18, p< 0.0001); SpO2 (Pre: 97.04 ± 3.37, Post: 95.40 ± 3.93, p=0.005) and RPE (Pre: 0. 07 ± 0.25, Post: 1.49 ± 1.22, p< 0.0001). A mean of 21.26 ± 6.84 repetitions of sit to stand were performed in a minute. COVID-19 patients, thus, have significantly reduced functional capacity similar to that of patients with other respiratory dysfunctions. Thus, results of this study will enable therapist to plan the rehabilitation in COVID-19 patients to improve their functional capacity. This will enhance their ability to perform in activities of daily living and to participate in societal work and therefore will help in improving their quality of life. Key words: COVID-19, Physiotherapy, Sit to stand test, Functional Capacity Rehabilitation.