Physical Exercise as an Adjuvant to Glucocorticoid Therapy: Clinical Recommendations and Evidence Review.
Paula Etayo-Urtasun, Mikel L Sáez de Asteasu, Mikel Izquierdo
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluates the impact of physical exercise as an adjunct to glucocorticoid therapy in patients with immune-mediated and inflammatory diseases. It includes 19 studies with 663 participants, primarily women with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. The review found that exercise interventions consistently improved muscle performance and functional outcomes, highlighting the need for tailored exercise recommendations in this population.
Key findings
- Exercise interventions improved muscle performance and functional outcomes in glucocorticoid-treated patients.
- Evidence for improvements in bone, cardiometabolic, cognitive, and mental health outcomes was limited or inconsistent.
- Resistance training and aerobic exercise are essential components of exercise prescription for this population.
- The methodological quality of included studies was rated as moderate to high.
Why it matters
Understanding the interactions between glucocorticoid therapy and exercise is crucial for optimizing patient care. Exercise can mitigate adverse effects of glucocorticoids, enhance physical function, and improve overall health outcomes in affected populations.