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

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.

Keywords:

• Physical activity
• qualitative
• perspective
• rheumatoid arthritis

Disclosure statement

The author declares there is no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Donna M. Riggs

Donna Riggs – Donna graduated from Bournemouth University in 2018. She enjoyed learning about qualitative research and how it can be used to develop and enhance practice. Donna is currently a rotational physiotherapist at Yeovil District Hospital in Somerset.

Clare Killingback

Dr Clare Killingback – Since graduating as a physiotherapist from the University of Nottingham (1999), Clare has worked in various NHS trusts. Clare has also worked in some of the more remote corners of the world including Nepal, East Timor, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Egypt, and Iraq. This has taught her to be a creative and flexible practitioner. She is now setting up the physiotherapy programme at the University of Hull. Her research interests lie in the areas of physical activity, social isolation, older people and pedagogy. She is passionate about helping the next generation of physiotherapists become excellent in utilizing evidence-based practice.

Clare is a Senior Physiotherapy Lecturer and Programme Lead at the University of Hull.