TRIP

Effects of dynamic strength training on physical function, Valpar 9 work sample test, and working capacity in patients with recent-onset rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis and Rheumatism, 2003

Effects of dynamic strength training on physical function, Valpar 9 work sample test, and working capacity in patients with recent-onset rheumatoid arthritis.
arja.hakkinen@ksshp.fi OBJECTIVE: To study the impact of 24 months of strength training on the physical function of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
METHODS: Seventy patients were assigned to either the strength training (experimental) group (n = 35) or the control group (n = 35).
Patients in the experimental group performed strength training for 24 months, and control patients were instructed to perform range of motion exercises.
Maximal strength of the knee extensors, trunk flexors, and extensors, as well as grip strength were recorded with dynamometers.
Disease activity was assessed by the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and Ritchie's articular index, joint damage was determined by the Larsen x-ray index, and functional capacity was assessed using the Valpar 9 test and the Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ).
RESULTS: In the experimental group, strength training led to significant increases (19-59%) in maximal strength of the trained muscles.
There was a clear training effect on muscular strength in favor of the experimental group, but significant improvements in the HAQ indices as well as in the Valpar 9 test were seen also in control patients.
Results of the Valpar 9 and the HAQ were statistically significantly better in patients who remained gainfully employed compared with patients who retired preterm during followup.
However, compared with patients who remained in the work force, patients who retired were older, and their work was physically more demanding.