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 prolongedimmobilizationand current pharmacological treatments on muscular metabolism. In addition, the scientific evidencefor an early strength intervention, neuromuscular electrical stimulation or the application of heattherapy during hospitalization to help prevent COVID-19 functional sequels is analyzed. This reviewremarks the need to: (1) determine which potential pharmacological interventions have a negativeimpact on muscle quality and quantity; (2) define a feasible and reliable pharmacological protocol toachieve a balance between desired and undesired medication effects in the treatment of this noveldisease; (3) implement practical strategies to reduce muscle weakness during bed rest hospitalizationand (4) develop a specific, early and safe protocol-based care of functional interventions for olderadults affected by COVID-19 during and after hospitalization