Researchers from Shanghai Sports University report that physical activity can help reduce inflammation throughout the body in autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The findings appear in the Journal of Sport and Health Sciences (JSHS).
The study represents a systematic review of 87 prior investigations that explored how different forms of exercise influence inflammatory markers in autoimmune diseases including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and lupus erythematosus. By aggregating data from many studies, the researchers aimed to map common inflammatory responses to exercise across these conditions and identify patterns that clinicians can apply in practice.
Across the examined literature, regular exercise in individuals with multiple sclerosis was associated with an anti inflammatory profile. Reported benefits included improved performance and sharper mental alertness, alongside reductions in inflammatory biomarkers such as C reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha. While the same favorable trend emerged for MS in several analyses, the overall picture in other autoimmune diseases was more nuanced. The data suggest that exercise can modulate inflammatory processes, but the strength and consistency of this effect vary depending on the condition and the exercise regimen.
In diseases like diabetes and lupus, results were less uniform. The relationship between physical activity and inflammatory markers appears complex, possibly influenced by factors such as disease activity, baseline fitness, and the specific type and intensity of exercise. This complexity highlights the need for personalized exercise plans that consider a patient’s overall health, symptoms, and treatment goals.
The scientists emphasize a balanced exercise approach, recommending regular combinations of exercise modalities rather than focusing on a single method. Aerobic activities paired with resistance training tend to yield the most robust anti inflammatory signals when integrated into a weekly routine. Importantly, sessions should avoid excessive fatigue. Very intense exercise can provoke short term rises in inflammatory markers and may temporarily amplify inflammatory responses in some individuals. Designing workouts that are challenging yet sustainable is key to long term benefits.
In practical terms, a well rounded program might include moderate cardio sessions—such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming—alongside supervised strength training, flexibility work, and adequate recovery. The goal is to foster a steady anti inflammatory environment without triggering undue stress on the body. This approach aligns with broader recommendations that view exercise as a complementary strategy alongside medical therapies rather than a standalone treatment for autoimmune inflammation.
Overall, the emerging evidence supports the idea that physical activity can be a meaningful component of inflammation management in several autoimmune diseases. Clinicians are encouraged to tailor exercise plans to each patient, taking into account disease type, current symptoms, and treatment plans. Continued research will help clarify which exercise patterns confer the most reliable inflammatory benefits across diverse populations and conditions. }