Physical Inactivity Syndrome: A Risk Factor and Target for Intervention-A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Public Health
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Global population aging leads to increased health issues linked to immobility and bed rest.
• Conditions like frailty, sarcopenia, and hospitalization-associated disability are rising, primarily due to physical inactivity.
• Existing terms like 'disuse syndrome' and 'physical inactivity' have limitations in scope and connotation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a new academic term, 'physical inactivity syndrome' (PIS), to comprehensively describe health problems arising from immobility and reduced physical activity.
• To establish PIS as an umbrella term encompassing disuse syndrome, frailty, sarcopenia, and related conditions.
• To introduce the role of rehabilitation and exercise therapy in preventing and treating PIS.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature on immobility, physical inactivity, and related syndromes.
• Conceptual development and definition of the proposed term 'physical inactivity syndrome' (PIS).
• Discussion of the implications of PIS for medical professionals and patient care.

Main Results:

• Physical inactivity is a significant contributor to a range of physical, mental, and social health problems in aging populations.
• The proposed term PIS offers a broader and more accurate description of the risks associated with reduced physical activity than existing terminology.
• Rehabilitation and exercise therapy are crucial interventions for managing and preventing PIS.

Conclusions:

• The establishment of 'physical inactivity syndrome' (PIS) is essential for a unified understanding and management of conditions linked to immobility.
• Medical professionals must be educated on PIS risks and equipped with skills for effective prevention and treatment strategies.
• Addressing PIS is critical for improving the health and well-being of the aging global population.