OrthoSpineNews reports on an HSS study co-authored by sports medicine surgeon Scott A. Rodeo, MD, evaluating the effects of COVID-19 on the musculoskeletal system.

Dr. Rodeo explained the general purpose of the paper is to identify the potential musculoskeletal consequences of the virus. “Based on similarities to SARS-CoV-1 in China in 2003, as well as what we are seeing clinically at this time, there may be persistent muscle weakness, myalgias, and muscle dysfunction in patients recovering from COVID-19. This may directly impact recovery from orthopedic surgical procedures,” he noted. 

The authors wrote there is evidence suggesting the SARS infection leads to deficits in both muscle strength and endurance, likely due to the proinflammatory effects of the viral infection and the deconditioning that occurs during the convalescent period. The reduced functional capacity of these patients corresponded with decreases in several indices of health-related quality of life.

“Another important point is the immune dysfunction and altered inflammatory response in COVID-19 patients. Surgery, of course, also induces an inflammatory response, and the stress response to surgery when combined with altered immune function in COVID-19 patients may lead to surgical complications. An altered immune/inflammatory response may have a profound effect on wound healing,” said Dr. Rodeo.

Read the full article at orthospinenews.com.