Effects of a Weight and Pain Management Program in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis With Obesity: A Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Obesity Management
• Behavioral Health

Background:

• Obesity negatively impacts rheumatoid arthritis (RA) outcomes.
• Traditional weight loss programs are insufficient for RA patients facing pain-related weight challenges.
• Effective weight management is crucial for RA patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and pilot a 12-session group program integrating pain coping skills with lifestyle behavioral weight loss for obese RA patients.
• To assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of this combined intervention.

Main Methods:

• A pilot randomized trial with 50 participants comparing the integrated intervention to standard RA care.
• Feasibility assessed via accrual, attrition, and adherence rates.
• Outcomes analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t tests.

Main Results:

• The integrated intervention group showed significant reductions in weight (-2.28 kg) and waist circumference (-4.76 cm).
• Participants experienced improvements in physical functioning, eating behaviors, pain levels, and self-efficacy for weight control.
• Feasibility metrics indicated good initiation (79.3%) and moderate adherence to sessions (74.3% group, 64.2% exercise).

Conclusions:

• Integrating pain coping skills training with behavioral weight loss interventions may enhance outcomes for rheumatoid arthritis patients.
• Feasibility and adherence data will guide future larger-scale randomized efficacy trials.
• This combined approach shows promise for improving the medical management of RA in obese individuals.