An exploration of strategies to enhance PA in people with RA
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An exploration of strategies to enhance physical activity in people with Rheumatoid Arthritis
IRAS ID
125022
Contact name
Rachel Thomas
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of the West of England
Research summary
Research carried out in the last decade has shown strong evidence that regular physical activity is beneficial to patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the benefits of physical activity for patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis are well documented many patients are less active than the general population. They are also at greater risk of cardiovascular problems and limited function which are exacerbated by inactivity. It is widely recognised that long term engagement with physical activity is difficult for patients with chronic conditions. The primary aim of this project is to explore the strategies employed by patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis who are successfully engaging with regular physical activity. A separate study that will follow on from this research will aim to determine whether the strategies are acceptable to a wider group of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. The overall project will potentially provide useful information for researchers and clinicians regarding the development of future physical activity interventions for patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. If people with Rheumatoid Arthritis can engage with appropriate levels of physical activity there is the potential for enhancing longer term health and function. This may lead to decreased burden on the NHS and economic savings. With an ageing population and increasing prevalence of long term conditions it is hoped the findings of this project will prove useful in underpinning further research and clinical practice.
REC name
South Central - Oxford C Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/SC/0418
Date of REC Opinion
24 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion