Abstract
Aim: To investigate the correlation between the clinical characteristics
of myalgia-arthralgia, disease anxiety, and blood parameters in
COVID-19. Methods: Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 via computed
tomography and polymerase chain reaction were included. Disease-related
anxiety was evaluated using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R).
Pain character were evaluated using the Pain Quality Assessment Scale.
Laboratory parameters were checked for all patients. The correlation
between clinical and laboratory parameters was examined. Results: The
sample consisted of 70 (42.9%) females and 93 (57.1%) males. The
prevalence of muscle-joint pain was 63.2% (n=103). The most common
pains were back pain (n=52, 50.5%). The pain was mostly temporary,
intense, and dull. It spread locally to sensitive surrounding areas.
Patients with muscle-joint pain were found to have a higher prevalence
and severity of disease anxiety (p <0.05). Those with high
muscle-joint pain and disease anxiety had high CK and low lymphocyte (p
<0.05). Conclusion: Muscle-joint pains are highly frequent in
COVID-19 disease. Pain is most commonly in the back. This pain spreads
locally to sensitive surrounding tissues. Pain severity and frequency
are higher in those with higher disease anxiety. Muscle pain is
particularly associated with low lymphocyte and high CK. What’s known •
It is known that myalgia and fatigue are most common complaints in
COVID-19. • However, the characters of these symptoms has not been
systematically evaluated. • In addition to this, there is no sufficient
data evaluating its relationship with laboratory findings and emotional
state What’s new • Arthralgia and myalgia are very common and spreads
locally to sensitive surrounding tissues, particularly in the back. •
Severity and frequency of pain are higher in patients with more disease
anxiety. • Muscle pain is associated with low levels of lymphocytes and
high levels of creatine kinase.