Effects of supervised exercise program and home exercise program in patients with systemic sclerosis: A randomized...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Pulmonology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis, vascular abnormalities, and immune dysregulation.
• Patients with SSc often experience impaired functional capacity, respiratory complications, muscle weakness, and reduced quality of life.
• Exercise interventions are increasingly recognized as important components of SSc management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of a supervised exercise program versus a home exercise program in patients with systemic sclerosis.
• To evaluate the impact of these exercise interventions on functional capacity, pulmonary function, muscle strength, dyspnea, quality of life, and fatigue.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-seven patients with SSc were randomized into two groups: supervised exercise and home exercise.
• The supervised group engaged in breathing, aerobic, and resistance exercises with a physiotherapist for 12 weeks.
• The home exercise group performed breathing, posture, and aerobic exercises for 12 weeks.

Main Results:

• Both supervised and home exercise programs significantly improved functional capacity (6-minute walk test) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
• Supervised exercise demonstrated superior improvements in functional capacity, respiratory-peripheral muscle strength, HRQoL, and fatigue levels compared to home exercise.
• Pulmonary functions and dyspnea severity improved significantly only in the supervised exercise group.

Conclusions:

• Exercise interventions, both supervised and home-based, are crucial adjuncts to medical treatment for patients with SSc.
• Supervised exercise programs offer greater benefits for improving the functional capacity and overall health status of SSc patients.
• These findings underscore the importance of tailored exercise regimens in managing SSc.