However , the 4 generic scales would benefit from further validation in patients with RA , the VAS requires st and ardization , and the MAF would benefit from further sensitivity data .
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is an important outcome for patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) .
The purpose of this study was to identify the scales being used to measure RA fatigue , and to systematic ally examine the evidence for their validation .
EFFECTS OF A MODIFIED DANCE-BASED EXERCISE ON CARDIORESPIRATORY FITNESS, PSYCHOLOGICAL STATE AND HEALTH STATUS OF PERSONS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
ABSTRACT Cardiorespiratory function and exercise tolerance appear very limited in persons with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) . Many studies have demonstrated that aerobic exercise training is beneficial to prevent physical deconditioning without inducing adverse effects on an individual 's joints and general health . The present study was conducted to demonstrate that a dance-based exercise program is a safe and efficient activity to improve physical fitness and psychological state in persons with RA . A group of 19 persons ( mean age , 49.3 ± 13 yr ) participated in a  12-wk exercise program  ( twice weekly ) , whereas 10 persons ( mean age , 49.4 ± 12 yr ) served as controls . Health status , use of medication , joint pain and swelling , physical fitness , activity of daily living and psychological state were assessed at baseline , after the 12-wk training program and 6 mo after the end of the program . Exercise training induced a mean improvement of 13 % in aerobic power , with the highest values reaching 40 % . No significant changes were observed in joint status , even though the count of painful joints tended to decrease in the exercise group . Positive changes in depression , anxiety , fatigue and tension were observed after the 12-wk exercise program . These findings provide some evidence s in favor of aerobic exercise in individuals with RA . Furthermore , it is of primary interest to note that a weight-bearing activity with limited ground impacts do not provoke short-term adverse effects on joint status . Further studies , however , are required to determine the long-term effect of weight-bearing exercise on the health status of individuals with RA
However , the 4 generic scales would benefit from further validation in patients with RA , the VAS requires st and ardization , and the MAF would benefit from further sensitivity data .
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is an important outcome for patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) .
The purpose of this study was to identify the scales being used to measure RA fatigue , and to systematic ally examine the evidence for their validation .