Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: In the course of COVID-19, there may be an excessive immune response of the body with the release of large amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines, causing a "cytokine storm", also known as cytokine release syndrome (CRS). The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how important an integrated approach to health care is, with physiotherapy being one of its fundamental aspects. The aim of this study was to analyze the potential relationship between the level of selected cytokines (IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-15, TNF-α) and inflammatory markers (CRP, NLR, PLR, LMR, SII) and the duration of rehabilitation in patients after COVID-19. METHODS: The examined patients participated in a comprehensive rehabilitation program, which included breathing exercises, aerobic training, and strength and endurance training. Peripheral venous blood samples were also collected from each patient. RESULTS: Factors such as gender, smoking status, IL-10, and the presence of pneumonia during infection were significantly associated with the length of rehabilitation after COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: The course of rehabilitation after COVID-19 may depend on many factors, including smoking, the presence of pneumonia due to infection, and some parameters of inflammation.