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International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science
Article . 2025 . Peer-reviewed
License: CC BY
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THE IMPACT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF MECHANISMS, OUTCOMES AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Authors: null Karolina Błądzińska; null Maciej Błądziński; null Małgorzata Zach; null Kacper Szeląg; null Barbara Wołoszyn;

THE IMPACT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF MECHANISMS, OUTCOMES AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Autoimmune diseases are chronic, heterogeneous disorders characterized by immune-mediated tissue damage, systemic inflammation, and reduced quality of life. Pharmacological treatments often alleviate symptoms but rarely address functional limitations such as fatigue, deconditioning, and psychosocial distress. Physical activity (PA) is increasingly recognized as a safe and effective adjunctive therapy. This narrative review synthesizes biological mechanisms, disease-specific outcomes, and practical applications of PA across major autoimmune conditions including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and type 1 diabetes (T1D). Evidence shows that PA functions as a multimodal immunomodulator, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, enhancing regulatory T-cell activity, rebalancing adipokines, recalibrating neuroendocrine pathways, and supporting microbiome diversity. Clinically, PA improves fatigue, functional capacity, mood, and cardiometabolic risk, without increasing relapse or flare frequency. The FITT framework (Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type) offers a practical model for prescribing exercise, with disease-specific adaptations ensuring safety and adherence. Despite strong evidence, implementation remains limited due to patient fears, clinician knowledge gaps, and systemic barriers. Digital health and tele-exercise hold promise for precision exercise medicine. In conclusion, physical activity is a safe, effective, and indispensable adjunct in autoimmune disease management, warranting integration into standard care pathways.

Keywords

Autoimmune Diseases, Physical Activity, Exercise Prescription, Inflammation, Fatigue, Quality of Life

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average