Benefits of Exercise for Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, autoimmune, inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology and is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis. The disease is most often characterized by morning stiffness, tenderness, and swelling. Other systemic symptoms, such as anemia, increased free radical production, muscle atrophy, and weakness, also occur. Most likely, a combination of these factors contributes to physical inactivity as well, which, in turn, reinforces the muscle wasting. Despite these barriers, it is now becoming recognized that patients with well‐controlled RA can tolerate increased physical activity under carefully supervised conditions and that there are many benefits to exercise. This article reviews the effects of various types of physical activity on RA, with particular emphasis on studies that have examined the use of strength training in clinical practice for the management of RA. Without exception, the studies have shown that increased physical activity in patients with RA improves physical capacity without exacerbating disease activity. Important criteria to consider when recommending an exercise program for patients with RA are outlined.