Effects of regular exercise on pain, fatigue, and disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major health problem in Korea. To explore the effects of regular exercise on pain, fatigue, and disability, a descriptive study was conducted in 435 Korean patients with RA. Exercisers were defined as those who are currently exercising more than 3 times a week, for at least 20 minutes, and for more than 6-consecutive months after being diagnosed with RA. The primary finding was that exercisers had significantly less fatigue and disability compared with nonexercisers. Results suggest that regular exercise has advantages for patients with RA to decrease fatigue and disability.