News on Exercise and Fatigue Management in RA | EULAR 2024 Highlights with Leila

Exercise and Physical Activity

• Insufficient Evidence: Current studies on Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and exercise show insufficient evidence to conclude a direct effect on inflammation. However, exercise remains a vital part of RA management.
• Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS): New exercisers may mistake DOMS for disease activity, but it's a normal reaction to exercise and usually subsides within a few days.
• Recommended Exercise: Combining strength training with cardiovascular training, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), is most effective for managing RA.

Study on Exercise in RA Patients

A recent study highlighted the benefits of a 16-week program combining interval-based aerobic training with resistance training and dietary changes. The results showed improved cardiometabolic risk profiles and decreased disease activity in RA patients. Additionally, exercise positively affects the innate immune system and T cells, which are crucial in RA management.

Exercise and Pain Management

A meta-analysis reviewing 381 studies found that regular exercise decreases pain and improves the quality of life in RA patients without exacerbating disease activity. The release of endorphins and serotonin during exercise also contributes to enhanced well-being.

Cardiac Output Measurement

The Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPET) measures cardiovascular health during exercise, helping tailor exercise prescriptions to individual needs in rheumatology. This personalized approach ensures optimal benefits while minimizing risks.

Leila’s Personal Experience

After undergoing weight loss surgery, Leila began exercising regularly in February and noticed significant reductions in joint pain and fatigue, except in her hands. Her experience underscores the importance of incorporating exercise into RA management.

Fatigue and New EULAR Recommendations

Despite ongoing research, few new insights or treatments for fatigue have emerged, and it remains an under-discussed issue in rheumatology. The complexity and varying causes of fatigue make it difficult to study and treat effectively. Leila encourages healthcare professionals to discuss fatigue with their patients, even though pharmacological options are limited.