Effects of Aerobic Exercise in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Evaluation of the Effects of Aerobic Exercise Therapy on Quality of Life, Functional Capacity, Mood, Fatigue, and Inflammatory Markers in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

This study aims to evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise therapy on quality of life, functional capacity, mood, and fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, the study investigates the impact of aerobic exercise on inflammatory markers, pain, and disease activity.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and functional limitations. Exercise therapy is widely used in rehabilitation to improve functional capacity and quality of life in RA patients.

In this study, patients with low disease activity RA will be divided into two groups:

Standard medical treatment + education Standard medical treatment + education + aerobic exercise

The aerobic exercise program will be conducted 5 days per week for 6 weeks. Outcomes including functional capacity (VO2 max), quality of life, fatigue, mood, and inflammatory markers will be assessed before and after the intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with RA according to ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria
• Female patients aged 30-70 years
• Low disease activity (DAS-28 < 3.2)
• Voluntary participation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CAD, heart failure, etc.)
• Respiratory diseases
• Neurological disorders
• BMI > 35
• Malignancy
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Recent medication change (last 3 months)
• Musculoskeletal conditions preventing exercise