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Evaluation of Changes in Hydration and Body Cell Mass with Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis after Exercise Program for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Published on: July 14, 2023
Physical activity in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review
Marie Tierney1, Alexander Fraser, Norelee Kennedy
1Dept of Physiotherapy, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
Journal of Physical Activity & Health
|September 14, 2012
Summary
Physical activity levels in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients may be lower than in the general population. Further research is needed to confirm this, considering the health benefits of exercise for RA management.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Exercise Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Physical activity is linked to better health outcomes across populations.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms may lead to reduced physical activity levels in affected individuals.
- Understanding physical activity in RA is crucial for disease management and patient well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize existing evidence on physical activity levels in the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) population.
- To establish the current evidence base regarding physical activity in individuals with RA.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of 7 major scientific databases was conducted.
- Searches were performed up to February 2011 to identify relevant studies.
- Inclusion criteria were applied to select studies for final analysis, with 16 studies meeting the requirements.
Main Results:
- The review identified 136 studies, with 16 ultimately included after rigorous screening.
- Results suggest that individuals with RA tend to exhibit lower physical activity levels compared to healthy controls or normative data.
- This indicates a potential disparity in physical activity engagement within the RA population.
Conclusions:
- Methodological limitations in the reviewed studies prevent definitive conclusions about RA physical activity levels.
- The known health benefits of physical activity underscore the need for further investigation in this area.
- Additional high-quality research is recommended to accurately assess and understand physical activity patterns in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
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