CureusOct 11, 2026

Bone and Muscle Risks and Recovery in Long COVID

Updated Oct 12, 2026

Abstract

Long COVID may lead to increased fracture susceptibility and adverse effects on surgical recovery.

Long COVID is associated with alterations in bone mineral density and delayed wound healing.
Persistent inflammation and endothelial dysfunction could increase perioperative risks.
Chronic pain and reduced exercise capacity may complicate rehabilitation efforts.
Evidence specific to orthopedic surgery is currently limited, indicating a need for further research.
Greater awareness of Long COVID's impact may enhance patient management and recovery strategies.

Simplified

The COVID-19 pandemic left a lasting imprint on orthopedic surgery, initially through widespread reductions in care delivery and subsequently through the complex challenges posed by Long COVID syndrome. Emerging literature describes Long COVID-related alterations in bone mineral density, delayed wound healing, prolonged inflammation, persistent chronic pain, and increased perioperative risks. Long COVID may adversely affect skeletal integrity through inflammatory, hypoxic, and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-mediated pathways, potentially leading to bone loss and increased fracture susceptibility. Persistent inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, thrombotic tendency, and neurocognitive impairment may also increase perioperative vulnerability, while chronic musculoskeletal pain, reduced exercise capacity, and post-exertional malaise may complicate rehabilitation and functional recovery. Although orthopedic-specific evidence remains limited, the available findings suggest that Long COVID may represent an underrecognized risk modifier relevant to surgical planning and postoperative management. Greater awareness of these mechanisms may improve patient counseling, risk stratification, and rehabilitation strategies.

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Bone and Muscle Risks and Recovery in Long COVID

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You found one interesting study. We’ll send the next 7.

What Lands in Your Inbox Each Week:

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