Effects of physical inactivity on the human body: An integrative review

Abstract

Introduction: Immobilization in hospitalized and critically ill patients is associated with important clinical and functional repercussions, including loss of muscle mass, reduced functional capacity, cardiovascular and respiratory deconditioning, prolonged hospital stay, and impaired functional recovery. These alterations result from the interaction between prolonged bed rest, mechanical ventilation, systemic inflammatory response, and clinical severity, requiring an interdisciplinary approach integrating physical therapy, medicine, and multiprofessional strategies aimed at preserving functionality and promoting global patient recovery. Objective: The study examined the effects of immobility on the human body and its systemic repercussions in hospitalised and critically ill patients, with an emphasis on the role of physiotherapy within a multidisciplinary approach to preventing functional decline and improving clinical and functional outcomes.  Methods:  This is a descriptive and analytical literature review, conducted through an integrative review of the literature. The following databases were used: the Virtual Health Library (VHL), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), the National Library of Medicine (PubMed), SciVerse Scopus (Scopus) and the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO). Twenty-one studies published between 2004 and 2021 were included, selected on the basis of their relevance to the association between immobility and musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic changes, as well as physiotherapy interventions and a multi-professional approach in the hospital setting. Results: The analyzed evidence indicates that immobilization is associated with worse clinical prognosis, including accelerated muscle loss, reduced functional independence, cardiorespiratory deconditioning, and prolonged hospitalization. Physiotherapeutic interventions such as early mobilization, therapeutic exercises, and functional rehabilitation, combined with continuous medical monitoring, demonstrated a positive impact on preserving functionality and reducing complications associated with prolonged bed rest. Multiprofessional integration proved essential to optimize functional recovery, reduce complications, and improve clinical outcomes. Conclusion: The interdisciplinary approach between physical therapy and medicine is essential for managing the effects of immobilization in hospitalized and critically ill patients. Structured and early evidence-based protocols contribute to preserving functional capacity, reducing complications, and improving clinical and functional outcomes.