Background and purpose: Rheumatoid arthritis frequently results in functional impairment. This study investigated the effect of a specific exercise regimen on function.
Method: A randomized controlled assessor-blinded (N = 36) compared the effect of knee extensor and flexor muscle training on pain, the timed up and go (TUG) test and the Health Assessment Questionnaire in subjects with non-acute rheumatoid arthritis.
Results: Knee extensor and flexor muscle training increased isokinetic torques at speeds of 60 degrees/sec-1 and 120 degrees/sec-1 as measured by an isokinetic dynamometer (p = 0.02-0.003). The experimental group experienced a reduction in pain (p = 0.03), an improvement in TUG time (p = 0.01) and in function as measured by the Health Assessment Questionnaire (p = 0.04).
Conclusions: Specific knee muscle training can be administered safely in people with non-acute rheumatoid arthritis, and may produce functional benefits.