The effects of physical activity on disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition with a predilection for peripheral synovial joints. It affects 0.5 to 5% of the adult population worldwide. The chronic inflammation of RA results in destruction of the synovial joints, decreased mobility and chronic pain. Patients who have RA experience a poorer health related quality of life (HRQoL) in comparison to the general population. They are less habitually physically active than a healthy population, to the point of not meeting the required guidelines of physical activity to maintain a healthy wellbeing. Moreover, patients with RA are prone to developing osteoporosis as a consequence of systemic inflammation and a sedentary lifestyle.