Injuries related to trauma are often seen in South Africanintensive care units. Systemic inflammation and the development of sepsislead  to  prolonged  intensive  care  unit  and  hospital  stay.  The  effects  of critical illness and immobility on the human body are not always well-understood. This review article explains the pathogenesis of muscle weak-ness due to inflammation and identifies the role of exercise prescription incounteracting impairments that may be identified in survivors of traumaduring and after hospital stay.