Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
06:13
Randomized Controlled Trial to Study the Acute Effects of Strength Exercise on Insulin Sensitivity in Obese Adults
Published on: December 1, 2023
The effect of exercise program applied to patients with scleroderma on functional outcomes: A Randomized Controlled
Gizem Ozbudak1, Serap Ozer2, Figen Yargucu Zihni3
1Trakya University Kesan Hakkı Yörük School of Health, Department of Nursing, Edirne, Turkey.
Modern Rheumatology
|July 9, 2026
Summary
An exercise program improved hand and mouth function and quality of life for systemic sclerosis patients. This intervention demonstrated significant benefits in functional abilities and overall well-being for individuals with this condition.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology and Rehabilitation
- Clinical Exercise Physiology
- Patient-Reported Outcomes
Background:
- Systemic sclerosis (SSc) significantly impacts hand and mouth function, affecting patients' quality of life.
- Limited research exists on the efficacy of structured exercise programs for improving functional outcomes in SSc patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a tailored exercise program on hand and mouth function in patients with systemic sclerosis.
- To assess the impact of the exercise intervention on the quality of life (QoL) of individuals with SSc.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 46 SSc patients, allocated to an intervention (exercise program + standard care) or control group.
- Data collected via Duruöz Hand Scale, Mouth Opening Measurement Form, and WHOQOL-BREF at baseline and 4, 8, 12 weeks.
- Intervention group received exercise program via DVD/mobile upload, alongside standard treatment.
Main Results:
- The intervention group showed statistically significant improvements in hand function compared to the control group.
- Significant positive changes were observed in mouth function for patients in the exercise program group.
- The exercise intervention led to a notable enhancement in the quality of life scores among SSc patients.
Conclusions:
- A structured exercise program is effective in improving hand and mouth functional outcomes for patients with systemic sclerosis.
- The exercise intervention positively impacts the quality of life, enhancing overall well-being in SSc patients.
- This study supports the integration of exercise as a therapeutic strategy in managing systemic sclerosis.
