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Updated: Jul 30, 2026
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Spontaneous and Evoked Measures of Pain in Murine Models of Monoarticular Knee Pain
Published on: February 22, 2019
[Training effects on pain in rheumatoid arthritis]
Kirsten Jemtland Enger1, Kari Bjørnstad, Erik Rødevand
1Avdeling for fysioterapi, Revmatologisk avdeling, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim.
Summary
Exercise can reduce pain and joint tenderness in rheumatoid arthritis patients. More research is needed to determine the optimal exercise types and their specific effects on rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Exercise Science
- Clinical Trials
Context:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and potential joint destruction.
- Understanding the impact of physical activity on RA symptoms is crucial for improving patient quality of life.
Purpose:
- To review the existing evidence on the effects of exercise training on pain and joint manifestations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- To synthesize findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 1997 and February 2001.
Summary:
- A review of six RCTs indicates that exercise generally leads to unchanged or reduced self-reported pain and tender joint counts in RA patients with low to moderate disease activity (ACR functional classes I or II).
- The positive effects of exercise on pain and joint tenderness may extend to patients with higher disease activity, though this requires further investigation.
- Evidence is less conclusive for patients with significant joint destruction and functional loss.
Impact:
- Exercise appears to be a beneficial intervention for managing pain and joint tenderness in many rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Further research is warranted to explore the specific benefits of different exercise modalities and their optimal application in RA management.
