The Effectiveness of Combined Resistance and Breathing Exercise Education in Alleviating Dyspnea and Anxiety Among COVID-19 Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

 Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can lead to dyspnea and anxiety among patients. Previous studies have demonstrated that resistance and breathing exercises can enhance respiratory function and reduce anxiety in various populations. However, the effectiveness of combined resistance and breathing exercises in alleviating dyspnea and anxiety, specifically in COVID-19 patients, remains uncertain.

 This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of combined resistance and breathing exercises in alleviating dyspnea and anxiety among COVID-19 patients.

 A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 33 COVID-19 patients who were randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group received combined resistance and breathing exercises for 4 weeks; nevertheless, the control group did not receive any such intervention. Dyspnea and anxiety levels were assessed using the Borg Dyspnea Scale and the Beck Anxiety Inventory, respectively, at baseline and after the 4-week intervention period.

 After 4 weeks of intervention, the intervention group exhibited a significant improvement in both dyspnea (P = 0.039) and anxiety (P = 0.007), compared to the control group. The mean anxiety score in the intervention group decreased significantly from 18.5 ± 10.1 to 7.6 ± 5.7; nonetheless, the mean anxiety score changed from 15.6 ± 7.7 to 13.6 ± 6.1 in the control group.

 Combined resistance and breathing exercises have proven to be effective in reducing dyspnea during physical activity and alleviating anxiety in COVID-19 patients. These exercises should be considered a non-pharmacological intervention for managing respiratory symptoms and anxiety in individuals affected by COVID-19.