The first randomized controlled study presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Amsterdam has revealed that physical exercise can effectively restore the immune system in individuals suffering from post-COVID syndrome, commonly known as long COVID.
The experiment involved 31 patients who had recovered from COVID-19 but continued to experience its long-term effects. A subset of these patients participated in an eight-week rehabilitation program that included both aerobic and strength training exercises, while the control group received standard medical care. Researchers observed significant improvements in the levels of `naïve` and `memory` T-cells within the exercise group. These T-cells are vital components of the immune system, crucial for mounting responses to both new and previously encountered infections.
According to the study`s authors, consistent physical activity enhances blood circulation, accelerates the turnover of immune cells, and reduces chronic inflammation. These benefits not only help alleviate common long COVID symptoms such as persistent fatigue and joint pain but also strengthen the body`s overall capacity to fend off subsequent infections.
Looking ahead, the research team plans to investigate whether these positive effects are also observed in patients who experienced milder forms of COVID-19 and did not require hospitalization.
