PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND REHABILITATION STRATEGIES IN THE COMPREHENSIVE MANAGEMENT OF TYPE 2 DIABETES

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is one of the most common non-communicable diseases worldwide and is linked to high risks of complications, disability, and reduced quality of life. Consequently, there is an increasing need for effective non-drug treatment options, especially physical rehabilitation and personalized physical activity. Aim. To summarize current scientific evidence on the role of physical activity and rehabilitation technologies in the comprehensive management of patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and to analyze the effectiveness of existing approaches considering clinical, functional, and age-related factors. Materials and Methods. An analytical review of 36 scientific publications from international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) was conducted. The selected studies focused on the use of physical therapy in Type 2 diabetes mellitus, were of high methodological quality, and provided data on the effects of physical activity on metabolic, functional, and psycho-emotional indicators. Results. This article summarizes current approaches to the use of therapeutic exercise, kinesiotherapy, massage, hydrotherapy, diet therapy, and phytotherapy in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Special attention is given to the importance of individualized exercise programs based on disease compensation level, cardiovascular comorbidities, physical fitness, and coexisting conditions. It has been shown that moderate-intensity physical activity (60–75% HRmax) improves insulin sensitivity, reduces body weight, normalizes glycemia, and prevents complications. Emphasis is placed on the gradual increase in physical load, glycemic control before and after exercise, and the importance of psycho-emotional support. Conclusions. Integrating physical rehabilitation methods into the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus significantly enhances therapy effectiveness, improves patients' quality of life, and reduces the risk of complications. A promising direction is the development of differentiated rehabilitation programs tailored to individual clinical and physiological characteristics.