Effect of Aerobic and Balancing Exercises on Anxiety and Dizziness in Patients with Covid-19

Abstract

Background: The pathogen that causes COVID-19 is identified as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is the pathogen that triggered the global pandemic., has emerged as a significant threat to global health, infecting over half a million people worldwide and resulting in numerous fatalities. Individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 frequently experience increased anxiety and disrupted sleep patterns as a result of isolation and medical treatment. Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the impact of aerobic and balance exercises on anxiety and dizziness in post-COVID-19 patients. Subjects: The study involved 30 post-COVID-19 patients aged 45 to 65 years, experiencing anxiety and dizziness. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups and selected from the outpatient clinic at General Sohag Hospital. Methods: Group (A): The program included 15 patients who participated in aerobic exercises, balance training, and relaxation techniques over a four-week period, attending sessions three times per week. Group (B): Comprised 15 patients who performed only relaxation exercises focused on physical relaxation for the same duration and frequency. All participants underwent assessments both before and after the intervention using the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, the Berg Balance Scale, and by measuring respiratory function through maximum voluntary ventilation.

Results: Both groups (A and B) showed significant improvements when comparing pre- and post-treatment assessments.demonstrated a notable reduction in anxiety and dizziness, along with a significant increase in maximum voluntary ventilation following the 4-week training period. After treatment, the mean scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) were 17.2 ± 1.74 for Group A and 21.73 ± 1.44 for Group B. The mean scores on the Berg Balance Scale were 26.67 ± 5.73 for Group A and 22.2 ± 3.59 for Group B. Additionally, the mean values of maximum voluntary ventilation were 117.2 ± 16.74 for Group A and 108.13 ± 16.25 for Group B. However, participants in Group A, Participants who engaged in aerobic and balance exercises alongside relaxation techniques experienced a significantly greater decrease in anxiety and dizziness, along with a notable improvement in maximum voluntary ventilation (P < 0.001) compared to Group B. Conclusion: Aerobic and balance exercises, combined with relaxation techniques, are an effective approach to managing anxiety and dizziness in post-COVID-19 patients.