Psoriatic arthritis and physical activity: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Exercise Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patient data on physical activity (PA) effects is limited compared to rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
• Understanding PA's impact on PsA is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the level of physical activity in psoriatic arthritis patients.
• To review the effects of physical activity on articular disease, extra-articular symptoms, and overall well-being in PsA.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search using PubMed, Cochrane, and PEDro databases.
• Keywords: "psoriatic arthritis AND physical activity".
• PRISMA methodology applied for article selection and analysis, limited to English-language studies before January 2021.

Main Results:

• Only 13 out of 319 retrieved studies met inclusion criteria.
• Reported regular physical activity levels varied significantly (17% to 68%).
• Exercise improved BASDAI, pain, fatigue, quality of life, muscle strength, and cardiovascular comorbidities. Rehabilitation programs reduced pain and fatigue. Risk of enthesitis/flares from exercise is conflicting but recent trials show no adverse events.

Conclusions:

• Physical activity offers clear benefits for psoriatic arthritis patients, positively impacting disease activity, well-being, and comorbidities.
• The benefits of exercise appear to outweigh the potential risks of enthesitis.
• Further research is needed to confirm findings and define optimal exercise modalities for PsA.