Evolution of musculoskeletal symptoms in Long COVID syndrome: a lexical analysis to approach requirements for an interdisciplinary management

Long COVID syndrome is characterized by new, returning, or persistent symptoms after the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among the potential long-term effects of COVID-19, several different musculoskeletal symptoms have been reported in many patients with an important impact on quality of life. The rehabilitation needs of Long COVID patients could be dynamic. However, to date there are no studies that have evaluated how the rehabilitation needs of patients with Long COVID syndrome have changed overtime. We conducted a literature review to summarize the most recurrent manifestations of the Long COVID syndrome during the three years of the pandemic, as well as the evolution of musculoskeletal symptoms, through lexical analysis. This approach allowed us to investigate the literature, highlighting how the most used words to describe Long COVID symptoms and outcomes have changed over different periods. Our analysis showed an increasing involvement of the musculoskeletal system in Long COVID symptomatology, as evidenced by the progressive growth of fatigue and weakness symptoms over time. In addition, arthralgia has always been associated with Long COVID. The lexical analysis we conducted emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary management, as the symptoms reported are interconnected. Moreover, this novel approach highlights that the Long COVID syndrome can be interpreted as a dynamicentity requiring up-to-date rehabilitative interventions. The worldwide healthcare systems should be founded on multidisciplinary teams to guarantee early and comprehensive rehabilitation to reduce the socio-sanitary burden associated with this syndrome.& COPY; 2023 Societe francaise de rhumatologie. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved

Automated summary

Long COVID syndrome refers to the new, returning, or persistent symptoms after the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. Musculoskeletal symptoms have a significant impact on the quality of life in many patients. A literature review was conducted to explore the evolution of musculoskeletal symptoms in Long COVID syndrome. The findings highlight the need for interdisciplinary management and timely rehabilitative interventions.