Prevalência de sequelas pós-Covid-19 no aparelho locomotor de profissionais de saúde: revisão sistemática da literatura

Abstract

Introduction: Healthcare professionals were highly exposed to COVID-19 infection and vaccine administration during the pandemic. In addition to known systemic effects, musculoskeletal complaints such as myalgia, fatigue, joint pain, and stiffness have been reported, possibly associated with both infection and post-vaccination responses. These conditions may compromise functional capacity and quality of life in this population. Objective: To investigate the prevalence, affected tissues, most common body regions, and motor dysfunctions associated with musculoskeletal sequelae in healthcare professionals with COVID-19 or adverse effects following vaccination. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Cross-sectional studies evaluating healthcare professionals with confirmed COVID-19 and musculoskeletal sequelae were included. Two independent reviewers performed study selection using Rayyan software. Data extraction was conducted using a standardized form, and methodological quality was assessed with the adapted Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Due to methodological heterogeneity, a meta-analysis was not feasible; results were summarized narratively. Results: Five studies published between 2021 and 2023 were included, comprising 2,979 participants, mostly women (n = 1,963). Studies were conducted in countries including the Netherlands, United States, Ethiopia, Sweden, and Nepal. The most reported symptoms were myalgia, joint stiffness, spasms, and localized pain, mainly in the neck, back, and shoulders. Pain intensity ranged from mild to moderate (3–4 on the visual analog scale). Three studies assessed musculoskeletal adverse effects following vaccination, identifying local pain, functional limitation, and cases of subacromial bursitis and biceps tendinitis confirmed by ultrasound. Symptoms lasted from 4 hours to 7 days. The included studies were classified as having moderate methodological quality. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals may experience persistent musculoskeletal symptoms following COVID-19 infection or vaccination, with varying functional impact. Despite methodological limitations and lack of data on long-term disability, the findings highlight the importance of clinical and functional monitoring of healthcare workers in the post-pandemic period.