[Sports in advanced age in inflammatory rheumatic diseases]

The positive effect of moderate physical activity on cardiovascular system, psychological condition, immune reactions and joint biology are wellknown. They seem to facilitate pain control and to stimulate the metabolism of skeletal tissue and joints also in elder patients with rheumatoid arthritis if certain prerequisites are considered. The possible influence of physical activity on the natural course of the disease has not yet been investigated. The recommended type and extent of sports activity therefore have to be carefully selected with regard to the pathogenesis of the disease and their inflammatory changes as well as the patients individual medical conditions.