Effect of Twist and Raise Walking Technique on ICU-acquired Weakness in COVID-19 Patients: A Pre-post Experimental Study

Background: Recent studies presenting first recommendations on respiratory rehabilitation management have failed to advocate a specific protocol as there is still missing data about the current specific needs due to COVID-19. This necessitates the extensive research to be carried out for investigating the efficacy of various physiotherapeutic interventional methods on these associated symptoms which often go unnoticed. In the same interest, an attempt was made to address the complications of prolonged immobilization by facilitating early ambulation along with incorporation of upper limb, lower limb as well as trunk movements. The aim was to facilitate chest expansion along with initiation of early ambulation in order to reduce the possible complications of ICU acquired weakness. Materials and Methods: 32 COVID-19 positive subjects were given the twist and raise walking technique as a rehabilitative intervention for a period of 7 days. Post intervention data for various outcome measures like inspiratory hold capacity and forced expiration were recorded. Results: Clinically significant results were seen in post-test scores of all the subjects in terms of Inspiratory Hold Capacity (p<0.0001) as well as Forced Expiration Volume (p<0.0001). Conclusion: Twist and Raise Walking Technique was proven significant in reducing the intensity of ICU-acquired weakness by improving both the inspiratory hold capacity as well as the forced expiration. This technique can be advocated as a effective rehabilitation intervention especially in COVID-19 patients to minimize the possible complications of ICU-acquired weakness.