Feasibility of an eight-week dance-based exercise program and its effects on locomotor ability of persons with functional class III rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVES: The main objectives of this experimental case series were to evaluate the feasibility of a modified dance-based exercise program with low ground impacts in persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) functional class III and to describe its effects on locomotor ability. The relationship between 3 locomotor tests and their responsiveness also were addressed. METHODS: Ten female subjects participated in an 8-week exercise program. Locomotor ability was measured before and after the program using the 50-foot test of walking time, the 6-minute test of walking distance, and the locomotion biomechanical analysis. RESULTS: All subjects showed a high compliance (92.5% presence at sessions) over the 8 weeks of exercise without any aggravation in disease status. They were able to train efficiently at moderate intensity up to 25 minutes. Significant improvements were found in locomotor ability, with a higher responsiveness measured by the locomotion biomechanical analysis, followed by the 6-minute gait test and the 50-foot gait test. Inconsistent relationships between tests suggested that different locomotor abilities are required during tests. CONCLUSION: These results support the feasibility of a modified dance-based exercise program for persons with severe RA. With high levels of responsiveness, the detailed biomechanical analysis and the 6-minute gait test are recommended for the assessment of locomotor ability.