What factors influence physical activity participation in people with rheumatoid arthritis?

Riggs, Donna M; Killingback, Clare

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by periods of inflammation and remission. Physical activity can reduce disease activity and lower the risks of associated co-morbidities such as cardiovascular disease. Despite the benefits, a high percentage of people with RA do not participate in regular physical activity.

Objective: The purpose of this qualitative literature review was to explore and synthesize the experiences of people with RA to develop better insight of the factors that influence physical activity participation.

Method: A systematic search was conducted across five online databases; MEDLINE, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, PsycINFO, Web of Science. Studies were assessed for quality, data were extracted and analyzed using thematic synthesis.

Results: A total of 186 articles were identified and screened against inclusion/exclusion criteria. Seven studies met the criteria and were included in this review. Five key themes were identified as the most significant factors to physical activity participation: professional knowledge and guidance; part of a community; knowing me, knowing RA; what’s in it for me; and where, when, how much? Professional knowledge and guidance was the underpinning factor influencing physical activity participation.

Conclusion: The results identify several internal and external factors that affect physical activity participation. To engage, facilitate and motivate patients to participate in physical activity, ongoing education and support from health care professionals is required. This will promote better symptom management and maintain functional independence. Additionally, health care professionals need to consider individual preferences and abilities when recommending physical activity.

Citation

Riggs, D. M., & Killingback, C. (2019). What factors influence physical activity participation in people with rheumatoid arthritis?. Physical Therapy Reviews, https://doi.org/10.1080/10833196.2019.1659562

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Aug 19, 2019
• Online Publication Date: Sep 4, 2019
• Publication Date: Sep 4, 2019
• Deposit Date: Sep 17, 2019
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 5, 2020
• Journal: Physical therapy reviews
• Print ISSN: 1083-3196
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10833196.2019.1659562
• Keywords: Physical activity; Qualitative; Perspective; Rheumatoid arthritis
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/2691994
• Publisher URL: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10833196.2019.1659562?journalCode=yptr20
• Additional Information: This is the accepted manuscript of an article published in Physical Therapy Reviews, 2019. The version of record is available at the DOI link in this record.
• Contract Date: Sep 17, 2019