Abstract
Background
It is estimated that at least 1.16% of women and 0.44% of men in the UK have rheumatoid arthritis.1 It is a disabling condition that has been recognised as having cardiovascular systemic effects and secondary effects of immobilisation.2 National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for the management of rheumatoid arthritis mention specialist physiotherapy to enhance general fitness, joint flexibility and muscle strength in order to improve function.3 But the NICE reference to ‘general fitness’ probably undervalues the importance of aerobic exercise in improving quality of life for people with rheumatoid arthritis.4
Aim
This systematic review was performed to determine the effects of aerobic exercise on pain, disease activity, functional ability and quality of life in people with rheumatoid arthritis. The review also examined possible adverse effects.
It is estimated that at least 1.16% of women and 0.44% of men in the UK have rheumatoid arthritis.1 It is a disabling condition that has been recognised as having cardiovascular systemic effects and secondary effects of immobilisation.2 National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for the management of rheumatoid arthritis mention specialist physiotherapy to enhance general fitness, joint flexibility and muscle strength in order to improve function.3 But the NICE reference to ‘general fitness’ probably undervalues the importance of aerobic exercise in improving quality of life for people with rheumatoid arthritis.4
Aim
This systematic review was performed to determine the effects of aerobic exercise on pain, disease activity, functional ability and quality of life in people with rheumatoid arthritis. The review also examined possible adverse effects.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1008-1009 |
| Number of pages | 2 |
| Journal | British Journal of Sports Medicine |
| Volume | 45 |
| Issue number | 12 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2011 |
| Externally published | Yes |
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Cite this
Scarvell, J., & Elkins, M. (2011). Aerobic exercise is beneficial for people with rheumatoid arthritis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 45(12), 1008-1009. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2011-090388