Qigong for Post Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 Infection

Qigong for Post Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 Infection

The purpose of this study is to conduct a pilot feasibility study of a combination of external and internal qigong on health-related quality of life in individuals with prolonged symptoms following COVID-19 infection.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether a combination of external and internal qigong, a traditional Chinese medicine healing practice, improves quality of life and symptoms for individuals with prolonged symptoms following a COVID-19 infection (sometimes called "long COVID"). The study involves completing questionnaires and participating in 6 weekly in person small group qigong sessions with an experienced qigong practitioner.

Participants will be randomized to participate in either an immediate or waitlist control group that will receive the qigong sessions starting 8 weeks later. Participants will complete 3 sets of questionnaires, each about 8 weeks apart and an interview about their experiences with qigong after completing the 6 sessions.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. English-speaking adults age 18 or greater
2. History of a COVID-19 infection with lingering symptoms lasting longer than 12 weeks
3. Willing and able to access the internet to complete questionnaires
4. Willing and able to travel to the qigong sessions to participate in person in Sacramento, CA.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Lung scarring secondary to COVID-19 infection as evidenced by signs of parenchymal lung damage on imaging or FVC < 80% (any patient with post COVID-related shortness of breath must have PFTs to be considered for enrollment).
2. Dementia
3. Any other condition that makes it difficult for the individual to complete questionnaires or attend the qigong sessions.