The PRESS RA: Protein and Resistance Exercise Supplementation Study for Rheumatoid Arthritis

The PRESS RA Study: Protein and Resistance Exercise Supplementation Study for Rheumatoid Arthritis

This study will evaluate if the combination of resistance exercise and protein supplementation will increase muscle strength and muscle mass among older individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

This study proposes a randomized trial to evaluate a tailored 16-week resistance exercise program, in combination with protein supplementation, for older individuals with RA. The exercise protocol in this study is distinctive because it combines dynamic and isometric (static) resistance exercise performed on specialized equipment that can accommodate the range of motion limitations frequently encountered in the older RA population. This study will also begin to evaluate if additional benefit can be achieved with daily protein supplementation

Inclusion Criteria:

• age 60-95 years
• diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis
• willing to participate in twice weekly exercise sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

• cognitive impairment
• recent heart surgery (within past 12 months)
• severe kidney disease
• use of supplemental oxygen
• presence of pacemaker
• diabetes that requires insulin for management
• allergy to soy or milk