Article

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of
land-based (LB) and water-based (WB) aerobic exercises in women with rheumatoid
arthritis (RA). DESIGN: A total of 133 women with RA were included in this
randomized, blinded, prospective, 16-week controlled trial. The subjects were
randomized into 3 groups:
WB (n = 33), LB (n = 33), and control (n = 34). Muscle
strength (MS) was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. Disease activity
(DAS-28) and functional ability (health assessment questionnaire) were measured
by an expert rheumatologist. Total body densitometry was used to assess body
composition. The intervention was performed 3 times per week, and all groups were
evaluated at baseline and after 8 and 16 weeks.
Compliance, concomitant
medications, and adverse events were recorded. The data were analyzed by
intention to treat. P < 0.05 was set as significant.
RESULTS: Of the 133 patients
recruited, 100 were randomized and 82 completed the study. In the first
evaluation, the 3 groups were matched to age, body composition, functional
capacity, MS, and concomitant medications. After 16 weeks, there were no
significant changes of knee MS neither body composition among the groups.
However, there was a significant improvement in disease activity and functional
ability in the WB after 8 and 16 weeks. CONCLUSION: Aquatic exercises provided
significant improvement in disease activity, pain, and functional capacity.

Langue : ANGLAIS