A Review of Exercise Interventions for Rehabilitation in Drug-Dependent Individuals

Abstract

This study systematically investigates the multidimensional rehabilitative effects and neurobiological mechanisms of exercise interventions in individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs). By synthesizing and critically analysing current evidence, the aim is to establish a theoretical framework for exercise-based rehabilitation and provide empirical support for optimizing intervention strategies. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, encompassing 39 core studies on exercise interventions in drug rehabilitation. Evidence-based medicine principles were applied to integrate mechanistic findings and evaluate effect sizes. The review focused on examining the physiological, psychological and neurobiological effects of various exercise modalities in individuals with SUD. Findings consistently demonstrate that exercise interventions are effective in reducing drug craving and withdrawal symptoms, improving overall quality of life and potentially lowering relapse rates. For individuals undergoing rehabilitation, exercise promotes improvements in physical health, psychological well-being and social functioning, while concurrently attenuating relapse vulnerability. As a nonpharmacological, multitarget intervention, exercise therapy exhibits significant potential in promoting neuroplasticity and facilitating psychological recovery in individuals with SUD. Standardized exercise prescriptions should be integrated into existing rehabilitation frameworks. Future research should emphasize comparative effectiveness across exercise modalities, explore the benefits of multimodal interventions, and further elucidate the interplay between biological, clinical and psychosocial mechanisms to enhance long-term rehabilitation outcomes.

Keywords: benefit mechanisms; drug addiction; exercise intervention; exercise‐based drug rehabilitation.