Nonpharmacological treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Effects of a telehealth-delivered Mediterranean diet intervention in adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis (MEDRA): a randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) versus the Irish Healthy Eating Guidelines (HEG) on physical function and quality of life in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Ireland.

METHODS

Forty-four adults with RA were randomised (1:1) to the MedDiet or HEG for 12 weeks. The intervention included three video teleconsultations and two follow-up telephone calls facilitated by a Registered Dietitian (RD). Changes in physical function by Health Assessment Questionnaire- Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and quality of life by Rheumatoid Arthritis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RAQoL) were the primary outcomes measured. Secondary outcomes included changes in dietary adherence, physical activity by Yale Physical Activity survey (YPAS), patient-perceived pain and general health, and anthropometric measures. All measurements were administered at baseline and repeated at 6 and 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Forty participants completed the study. Participants were primarily females (87.5%), mean age was 47.5 ± 10.9 years. At the end of the intervention, participants in the MedDiet group reported significantly better physical function (p = 0.006) and quality of life (p = 0.037) compared to HEG group. From baseline to 12 weeks, physical function significantly improved in both diet groups, MedDiet (0.9 ± 0.5 to 0.5 ± 0.4 units, p < 0.001) and HEG (1.4 ± 0.7 to 1.0 ± 0.6 units, p < 0.001). Quality of life also significantly improved in the MedDiet (10.1 ± 7.5 to 4.0 ± 4.7 units, p < 0.001) and HEG group (11.25 ± 7.2 to 7.9 ± 6.4 units, p = 0.048). Physical activity improved significantly in the MedDiet (56.7 ± 28.6 to 70.6 ± 33.5 points, p = 0.01) but not within the HEG group despite similar recommendations.

CONCLUSION

Adhering to the MedDiet and Irish Healthy Eating Guidelines resulted in improvements in RA patient-reported outcomes. The changes observed in both diet groups are likely due to the improvement in overall diet quality irrespective of dietary prescription.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04262505.

Advances in non-biological drugs for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

INTRODUCTION

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide, with a systemic impact. This review explores the role of non-biological conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) in its management.

AREAS COVERED

We discuss the effectiveness and safety of key csDMARDs such as Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, Hydroxychloroquine, Sulfasalazine, Methotrexate, and Leflunomide in relieving symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. We also highlight the importance of combination therapy using csDMARDs, supported by clinical studies demonstrating the benefits of various csDMARD combinations. Early intervention with these drugs is emphasized to prevent joint damage, improve clinical symptoms, and enhance patient outcomes.

EXPERT OPINION

Overall, csDMARDs have proven pivotal in managing RA, providing cost-effective and versatile treatment options. We acknowledge the advantages of biologics but highlight the associated challenges, making the choice between non-biological and biological drugs a personalized decision. This comprehensive overview aims to provide a deeper understanding of RA treatment strategies, contributing to improving the quality of life for patients with this chronic condition.

Physical therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis: the patients' perspective

OBJECTIVE

To assess the duration, frequency, and content of individual physical therapy (PT) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).

METHOD

In this cross-sectional study, an electronic questionnaire aimed at people with RA and axSpA was distributed through various communication channels of the Dutch Arthritis Foundation. It comprised questions on sociodemographic and health characteristics, received PT (currently and/or in the past year) and, if applicable, its duration, frequency, and content (active exercises, manual treatment, physical modalities, and/or counselling/education).

RESULTS

The study included 257 and 94 patients with self-reported diagnoses of RA and axSpA, of whom 163 (63%) and 77 (82%) currently or had recently received individual PT. The duration of individual PT was long-term (> 3 months) in 79% of RA and 83% of axSpA patients, with an average frequency of once per week in most. Although active exercises and counselling/education were each reported by ≥ 73% of the patients with RA and axSpA who received long-term individual PT, passive treatment modalities were also often offered (≥ 89%), in particular massage, kinesiotaping, and/or passive mobilization. The same pattern was seen in patients receiving short-term PT.

CONCLUSION

The majority of patients with RA and axSpA received PT currently or in the past year, usually individually, long-term, and at a frequency of once a week. Although active exercises and education are recommended in guidelines, passive treatment options that are not advised were relatively often reported. An implementation study to identify barriers and facilitators regarding adherence to clinical practice guidelines seems warranted.

Intensive therapy for moderate established rheumatoid arthritis: the TITRATE research programme

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis is a major inflammatory disorder and causes substantial disability. Treatment goals span minimising disease activity, achieving remission and decreasing disability. In active rheumatoid arthritis, intensive management achieves these goals. As many patients with established rheumatoid arthritis have moderate disease activity, the TITRATE (Treatment Intensities and Targets in Rheumatoid Arthritis ThErapy) programme assessed the benefits of intensive management.

Objectives

To (1) define how to deliver intensive therapy in moderate established rheumatoid arthritis; (2) establish its clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in a trial; and (3) evaluate evidence supporting intensive management in observational studies and completed trials.

Design

Observational studies, secondary analyses of completed trials and systematic reviews assessed existing evidence about intensive management. Qualitative research, patient workshops and systematic reviews defined how to deliver it. The trial assessed its clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in moderate established rheumatoid arthritis.

Setting

Observational studies (in three London centres) involved 3167 patients. These were supplemented by secondary analyses of three previously completed trials (in centres across all English regions), involving 668 patients. Qualitative studies assessed expectations (nine patients in four London centres) and experiences of intensive management (15 patients in 10 centres across England). The main clinical trial enrolled 335 patients with diverse socioeconomic deprivation and ethnicity (in 39 centres across all English regions).

Participants

Patients with established moderately active rheumatoid arthritis receiving conventional disease-modifying drugs.

Interventions

Intensive management used combinations of conventional disease-modifying drugs, biologics (particularly tumour necrosis factor inhibitors) and depot steroid injections; nurses saw patients monthly, adjusted treatment and provided supportive person-centred psychoeducation. Control patients received standard care.

Main outcome measures

Disease Activity Score for 28 joints based on the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR)-categorised patients (active to remission). Remission (DAS28-ESR < 2.60) was the treatment target. Other outcomes included fatigue (measured on a 100-mm visual analogue scale), disability (as measured on the Health Assessment Questionnaire), harms and resource use for economic assessments.

Results

Evaluation of existing evidence for intensive rheumatoid arthritis management showed the following. First, in observational studies, DAS28-ESR scores decreased over 10–20 years, whereas remissions and treatment intensities increased. Second, in systematic reviews of published trials, all intensive management strategies increased remissions. Finally, patients with high disability scores had fewer remissions. Qualitative studies of rheumatoid arthritis patients, workshops and systematic reviews helped develop an intensive management pathway. A 2-day training session for rheumatology practitioners explained its use, including motivational interviewing techniques and patient handbooks. The trial screened 459 patients and randomised 335 patients (168 patients received intensive management and 167 patients received standard care). A total of 303 patients provided 12-month outcome data. Intention-to-treat analysis showed intensive management increased DAS28-ESR 12-month remissions, compared with standard care (32% vs. 18%, odds ratio 2.17, 95% confidence interval 1.28 to 3.68; p = 0.004), and reduced fatigue [mean difference –18, 95% confidence interval –24 to –11 (scale 0–100); p < 0.001]. Disability (as measured on the Health Assessment Questionnaire) decreased when intensive management patients achieved remission (difference –0.40, 95% confidence interval –0.57 to –0.22) and these differences were considered clinically relevant. However, in all intensive management patients reductions in the Health Assessment Questionnaire scores were less marked (difference –0.1, 95% confidence interval –0.2 to 0.0). The numbers of serious adverse events (intensive management n = 15 vs. standard care n = 11) and other adverse events (intensive management n = 114 vs. standard care n = 151) were similar. Economic analysis showed that the base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was £43,972 from NHS and Personal Social Services cost perspectives. The probability of meeting a willingness-to-pay threshold of £30,000 was 17%. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio decreased to £29,363 after including patients’ personal costs and lost working time, corresponding to a 50% probability that intensive management is cost-effective at English willingness-to-pay thresholds. Analysing trial baseline predictors showed that remission predictors comprised baseline DAS28-ESR, disability scores and body mass index. A 6-month extension study (involving 95 intensive management patients) showed fewer remissions by 18 months, although more sustained remissions were more likley to persist. Qualitative research in trial completers showed that intensive management was acceptable and treatment support from specialist nurses was beneficial.

Limitations

The main limitations comprised (1) using single time point remissions rather than sustained responses, (2) uncertainty about benefits of different aspects of intensive management and differences in its delivery across centres, (3) doubts about optimal treatment of patients unresponsive to intensive management and (4) the lack of formal international definitions of ‘intensive management’.

Conclusion

The benefits of intensive management need to be set against its additional costs. These were relatively high. Not all patients benefited. Patients with high pretreatment physical disability or who were substantially overweight usually did not achieve remission.

Future work

Further research should (1) identify the most effective components of the intervention, (2) consider its most cost-effective delivery and (3) identify alternative strategies for patients not responding to intensive management.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN70160382.

Funding

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full in Programme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 9, No. 8. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of tendinous foot involvement in rheumatoid arthritis

Introduction

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis frequently consult for pain resulting from involvement of the tendons of the foot. This pain negatively affects foot biomechanics and quality of life. The most widely used treatment option for this condition is ultrasound-guided steroid injection, while other treatments were recommended such as heel pad, splints, and footwear.

Objective

To evaluate a joint intervention (rheumatology and podiatry) comprising an orthotic-podiatric treatment and infiltrations. We evaluated the response using ultrasound monitoring, a pain scale, functional tests, and assessment of patient satisfaction.

Methods

We performed a non-controlled blinded prospective interventional study of 96 patients with foot pain and selected those with ultrasound-confirmed tendon involvement. Patients enrolled started intervention treatment and were followed for 6 months. The outcome of the intervention was compared with the patient’s baseline status. The pre-post differences in the secondary variables (pain, disability) were analyzed using the t test and contingency tables or the Mann–Whitney test.

Results

Using our protocol, we recorded a rapid and significant reduction in the intensity of pain, in the foot function index, and in the ultrasound parameters (grayscale and Doppler). Structural damage to the tendon improved more slowly, with significant outcomes only at the last visit with respect to baseline. Abnormal foot support was detected in 50% of patients, and 79.5% were using inappropriate footwear.

Conclusions

Our multidisciplinary therapeutic protocol enabled a very significant improvement in tendon involvement. It was well-tolerated, with a high degree of satisfaction, and was easily evaluated using ultrasound. No changes in background medication were necessary.

Key Points • Multidisciplinary evaluation of patients with RA is advisable because it improves the treatment management in cases of inflammatory activity and structural abnormalities of the foot. • Comprising orthopedic-podiatric treatment (heel, splints, and suitable footwear) and infiltrations, in terms of clinical, ultrasound, and functional recovery of the foot tendons. • The therapy protocol we propose led to a significant improvement in pain relief and functional recovery.

Tai Chi for rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease that results in joint deformity and immobility of the musculoskeletal system. The major goals of treatment are to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, slow down or stop joint damage, prevent disability, and preserve or improve the person's sense of well-being and ability to function. Tai Chi, interchangeably known as Tai Chi Chuan, is an ancient Chinese health-promoting martial art form that has been recognized in China as an effective arthritis therapy for centuries. This is an update of a review published in 2004.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of Tai Chi as a treatment for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

SEARCH METHODS

We updated the search of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and clinical trial registries from 2002 to September 2018.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We selected randomized controlled trials and controlled clinical trials examining the benefits (ACR improvement criteria or pain, disease progression, function, and radiographic progression), and harms (adverse events and withdrawals) of exercise programs with Tai Chi instruction or incorporating principles of Tai Chi philosophy. We included studies of any duration that included control groups who received either no therapy or alternate therapy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane.

MAIN RESULTS

Adding three studies (156 additional participants) to the original review, this update contains a total of seven trials with 345 participants. Participants were mostly women with RA, ranging in age from 16 to 80 years, who were treated in outpatient settings in China, South Korea, and the USA. The majority of the trials were at high risk of bias for performance and detection bias, due to the lack of blinding of participants or assessors. Almost 75% of the studies did not report random sequence generation, and we judged the risk of bias as unclear for allocation concealment in the majority of studies. The duration of the Tai Chi programs ranged from 8 to 12 weeks.It is uncertain whether Tai Chi-based exercise programs provide a clinically important improvement in pain among Tai Chi participants compared to no therapy or alternate therapy. The change in mean pain in control groups, measured on visual analog scale (VAS 0 to 10 score, reduced score means less pain) ranged from a decrease of 0.51 to an increase of 1.6 at 12 weeks; in the Tai Chi groups, pain was reduced by a mean difference (MD) of -2.15 (95% confidence interval (CI) -3.19 to -1.11); 22% absolute improvement (95% CI, 11% to 32% improvement); 2 studies, 81 participants; very low-quality evidence, downgraded for imprecision, blinding and attrition bias.There was very low-quality evidence, downgraded for, blinding, and attrition, that was inconclusive for an important difference in disease activity, measured using Disease Activity Scale (DAS-28-ESR) scores (0 to 10 scale, lower score means less disease activity), with no change in the control group and 0.40 reduction (95% CI -1.10 to 0.30) with Tai Chi; 4% absolute improvement (95% CI 11% improvement to 3% worsening); 1 study, 43 participants.For the assessment of function, the change in mean Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ; 0 to 3 scale, lower score means better function) ranged from 0 to 0.1 in the control group, and reduced by MD 0.33 in the Tai Chi group (95% CI -0.79 to 0.12); 11% absolute improvement (95% CI 26% improvement to 4% worsening); 2 studies, 63 participants; very low-quality evidence, downgraded for imprecision, blinding, and attrition. We are unsure of an important improvement, as the results were inconclusive.Participants in Tai Chi programs were less likely than those in a control group to withdraw from studies at 8 to 12 weeks (19/180 in intervention groups versus 49/165 in control groups; risk ratio (RR) 0.40 (95% CI 0.19 to 0.86); absolute difference 17% fewer (95% CI 30% fewer to 3% fewer); 7 studies, 289 participants; low-quality evidence, downgraded for imprecision and blinding.There were no data available for radiographic progression. Short-term adverse events were not reported by group, but in two studies there was some narrative description of joint and muscle soreness and cramps; long-term adverse events were not reported.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

It is uncertain whether Tai Chi has any effect on clinical outcomes (joint pain, activity limitation, function) in RA, and important effects cannot be confirmed or excluded, since all outcomes had very low-quality evidence. Withdrawals from study were greater in the control groups than the Tai Chi groups, based on low-quality evidence. Although the incidence of adverse events is likely to be low with Tai Chi, we are uncertain, as studies failed to explicitly report such events. Few minor adverse events (joint and muscle soreness and cramps) were described qualitatively in the narrative of two of the studies. This updated review provides minimal change in the conclusions from the previous review, i.e. a pain outcome.

Physiotherapists' Adoption of a Theory-Based Skills Training Program in Guiding People with Rheumatoid Arthritis to Health-Enhancing Physical Activity

Purpose

To describe physiotherapists’ (PTs’) adoption of a theory-based skills training program preparing them to guide people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA) within a 1-year intervention trial.

Method

This was a longitudinal case study. Ten female PTs (age 25–59), delivering the HEPA intervention, participated. Data were collected on five occasions over a 19-month period: once before the training course, once after 4 course days, twice during the HEPA intervention and once after the HEPA intervention. Knowledge on about physical activity (score 0–6) and behavior change techniques (BCTs) (score 0–18), fear-avoidance beliefs (score 8–48) and self-efficacy to guide behavior change (score 9–54) were assessed with a questionnaire. Structured logbooks were used to register PTs’ self-reported guiding behavior. Criteria for PTs’ adherence to the protocol were pre-set.

Results

PTs’ knowledge on about BCTs and their self-efficacy increased significantly (p < 0.05) from median 9 to 13 and from median 38 to 46.5, respectively. Knowledge on about physical activity was high and fear-avoidance beliefs were low before the education (median 6 and 13.5, respectively) and did not change over time. Two out of ten PTs fulfilled the pre-set criteria for adherence throughout the intervention.

Conclusion

The results suggest that a theory-based skills training program improves PTs’ knowledge on about behavior change techniques and their self-efficacy to guide people with RA to HEPA. PTs’ adherence to the protocol was not complete but the clinical relevance of the adherence criteria need to be validated against observed PT behavior and patient outcomes.

Effectiveness of non-pharmacological and non-surgical interventions on the impact of rheumatoid arthritis: an umbrella review protocol

REVIEW QUESTION

The questions of this review are.

Patients' experiences of frequent encounters with a rheumatology nurse-A tight control study including patients with rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that is treated with both pharmacological and nonpharmacological methods. The treatment works well for patients who are knowledgeable about their disease and situation. However, this may be different for others as, among other things, it depends on how well informed the patients are in relation to their condition. Available research primarily focuses on patients in remission. One way of supporting and strengthening the group who experience a lack of well-being due to their disease and providing them with increased knowledge about their situation can be to give them access to a nurse-led clinic based on person-centred care.

AIM

The aim of the study was to describe the experience of patients with RA attending person-centred, nurse-led clinics over a 12-month period.

METHODS

A qualitative method was employed to deepen the understanding of the phenomenon. Fifteen participants were interviewed, and the text of the interviews was analysed using the phenomenographic method.

RESULTS

The analysis resulted in three categories that described participants' experiences of their encounters with a nurse. The three categories describe a process with interrelated concepts: first, Encountering competence, followed by Experiencing a sustainable relationship and, finally, Making a personal journey.

CONCLUSION

Patients with RA who had frequent meetings with a nurse experienced being strengthened on several levels and having gained increased knowledge about their disease. The person-centred approach made them feel that they had been met on their own level, in accordance with their needs and level of knowledge.

Determinants of happiness and quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a structural equation modelling approach

Objectives

Besides increasing longevity, the ultimate goal of medical care is to improve patients’ enjoyment of life, a concept akin to happiness. This study examined the determinants of happiness and quality of life (QoL) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In this observational, cross-sectional study, patients were assessed on disease activity, disease impact, personality, QoL and happiness. Structural equation modelling estimation was used to analyse the associations between these dimensions, pursuing three hypotheses: H₁—disease activity and perceived impact of disease are negatively associated with overall QoL and happiness in patients with RA; H₂—‘positive’ personality traits are related to happiness both directly and indirectly through perceived disease impact; H₃—happiness has a mediating effect in the relation between impact of disease and QoL.

Results

Data from 213 patients were analysed. Results supported all driving hypotheses. Happiness was positively related to ‘positive’ personality and, to a lesser extent, negatively related to impact of disease. Impact of disease, in turn, was positively related to disease activity and mitigated by ‘positive’ personality traits. Impact of disease had a much stronger relation with QoL than with happiness. Happiness mitigated the negative effect of disease impact on QoL.

Conclusion

Optimisation of QoL and happiness of people with RA requires effective control of the disease process and also improvement of the disease impact domains. Personality seems to play a pivotal mediating role in these relations.

Trajectories of Fear-Avoidance Beliefs on Physical Activity Over Two Years in People With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Objective

To identify and describe 2‐year trajectories of fear‐avoidance beliefs on physical activity and to identify predictors of these trajectories in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We included 2,569 persons with RA (77% women, mean age 58 years). Data on fear‐avoidance beliefs (Fear‐Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire physical activity subscale [FABQ‐PA]; range 0–24), sociodemographics, disease‐related variables, self‐efficacy, and health‐enhancing physical activity (HEPA) were collected from registers and by questionnaires at baseline, 14, and 26 months. K‐means cluster analysis was used to identify fear‐avoidance trajectories, and multinomial logistic regression was used to identify predictors of trajectory membership.

Results

Three trajectories of fear‐avoidance beliefs were identified: low (n = 1,060, mean FABQ‐PA = 3), moderate (n = 1,043, mean FABQ‐PA = 9), and high (n = 466, mean FABQ‐PA = 15). Consistent predictors of being in the high fear‐avoidance trajectory versus the other 2 trajectories were high activity limitation, male sex, income below average, not performing current HEPA, and elevated anxiety/depression. In addition, less consistent predictors such as shorter education, more pain, and low exercise self‐efficacy were also identified.

Conclusion

Stable trajectories of fear‐avoidance beliefs on physical activity exist among people with RA. Fear‐avoidance may be targeted more effectively by tailoring physical activity promotion to vulnerable socioeconomic groups, men, and those with high activity limitation and anxiety/depression.

Physiotherapists' management of challenging situations in guiding people with rheumatoid arthritis to health-enhancing physical activity

OBJECTIVES

To explore strategies used by physiotherapists (PTs) in guiding people with rheumatoid arthritis to health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA) in a group setting during a 1-year intervention study.

METHODS

Exploratory design with qualitative video analysis performed in three steps. Eleven female PTs were video recorded while leading support group sessions aiming at facilitating HEPA (twice-weekly exercise sessions at public gyms and 150 weekly minutes of moderately intense aerobic physical activity).

RESULTS

Three categories of challenging situations emerged. They occurred when the HEPA intervention participants reported barriers to performing physical activity, when they neglected to use the planning tool for physical activity as intended in the program, and when they received negative results from physical capacity tests. PTs used different strategies to manage these challenges, with main focus either on information-giving, corresponding to a traditional health professional approach, or utilizing group resources by organizing participation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides detailed descriptions of PTs' clinical behavior in video-recorded sessions. The results imply that motivated PTs can, despite their biomedical and practitioner-focused training, learn to adapt their communication strategies to different situations, altering between traditional information-giving and utilizing group resources by organizing participation.

Diagnostic value of high-frequency ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in early rheumatoid arthritis

Early diagnosis and management improve the outcome of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The present study explored the application of high-frequency ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the detection of early RA. Thirty-nine patients (20 males and 19 females) diagnosed with early RA were enrolled in the study. A total of 1,248 positions, including 858 hand joints and 390 tendons, were examined by high-frequency US and MRI to evaluate the presence of bone erosion, bone marrow edema (BME), synovial proliferation, joint effusion, tendinitis and tendon sheath edema. The imaging results of the above abnormalities, detected by US, were compared with those identified using MRI. No statistically significant overall changes were observed between high-frequency US and MRI in detecting bone erosion [44 (5.1%) vs. 35 (4.1%), respectively; P>0.05], tendinitis [18 (4.6%) vs. 14 (1.5%), respectively; P>0.05] and tendon sheath edema [37 (9.5%) vs. 30 (7.7%), respectively; P>0.05]. Significant differences were observed between high-frequency US and MRI with regards to the detection of synovial proliferation [132 (15.4%) vs. 66 (7.7%), respectively; P<0.05] and joint effusion [89 (10.4%) vs. 52 (6.1%), respectively; P<0.05]. In addition, significant differences were identified between the detection of BME using MRI compared with high-frequency US (5.5 vs. 0%, respectively; P<0.05). MRI and high-frequency US of the dominant hand and wrist joints were comparably sensitive to bone erosion, tendinitis and tendon sheath edema. However, MRI was more sensitive in detecting bone marrow edema in early RA, while US was more sensitive in the evaluation of joint effusion and synovial proliferation. In conclusion, US and MRI are promising for the detection and diagnosis of inflammatory activity in patients with RA.

Effects of rehabilitation for pain relief in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to find evidence for the effectiveness of rehabilitation for pain relief in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. [Subjects and Methods] A systematic review was conducted of MEDLINE, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and OVID, for studies published from July 2005 to July 2015. We extracted data regarding patients, intervention, comparison, and outcomes, and assessed the methodological quality of the data. [Results] Nine randomized controlled trials comparing the effects of pain relief in patients with rheumatoid arthritis were found. [Conclusion] Physical therapy and occupational therapy can reduce pain in rheumatoid arthritis.

Effects of a one-year physical activity programme for women with systemic lupus erythematosus - a randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVES

To study the effects of a one-year physical activity programme on aerobic capacity, physical activity and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by a randomized control design.

METHODS

Thirty-five women with low or moderate disease activity and organ damage were randomized to intervention (I) or control (C) group. The intervention during months 0-3 consisted of education, supervised aerobic exercise at high intensity and individual coaching, as well as self-managed physical activity at low-to-moderate intensity. During months 4-12, the physical activity was self-managed and the coaching was successively reduced over time. Outcome measures included: maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) from a bicycle ergometer test, self-reported physical activity and HRQL (SF-36).

RESULTS

VO2 at sub-max. and max. increased, independent of group, during the one-year study period (main effect of time p < 0.0001). VO2 max. increased between baseline and month 3 (p < 0.0001), between months 3 and 6 (p = 0.01) and the increase was sustained at month 12 (ns). Frequency of physical activity at high intensity also increased, independent of group, during the study period. It was increased at months 3, 6 and 12 compared to baseline (p = 0.02, p < 0.001, p = 0.03). Improvement in mental health between baseline and month 6 (p = 0.002) was seen for the I-group, not the C-group (p = 0.03). Disease activity and organ damage did not change.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical activity and aerobic capacity increased after supervised exercise and coaching, and the improvement was sustained during the one-year programme. However, no interactions between the group differences were seen, which suggests that repeated measurements could motivate to increased physical activity and thereby to increased aerobic capacity. As sub-max. VO2 increased over time, training-induced changes in VO2 on-kinetics could be another explanation. Little influence on HRQL was seen after the programme. The study indicates that physical activity at high intensity over one year is tolerated by patients with mild to moderate SLE.

Aquatic Exercises were Associated with an Acceptable State of Symptoms in Patients with Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases: Results from a Study with Interrupted Time-Series Design

AIM OF STUDY

The aim of this study was two-fold: to compare symptoms and daily activity in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases across periods with and without aquatic exercises, and to examine whether the patients reached an acceptable state of symptoms during the periods with aquatic exercises.

METHODS

Thirty-six patients reported pain, fatigue, stiffness and ability to carry out daily activities across periods with and without aquatic exercises. The study has an interrupted time-series design and variables were collected with text messages on mobile phones twice a week over a period of 35 weeks.

RESULTS

There was a significant reduction in pain, fatigue, stiffness and enhanced level of daily activity (p > 0.05) during periods of aquatic exercises compared to periods without. Further, a significantly higher proportion of patients reached an acceptable state for both pain and fatigue during periods with aquatic exercises.

CONCLUSIONS

Living with an inflammatory rheumatic disease is a lifelong challenge. Pain and fatigue are considered major obstacles for daily functioning and adequate self-management strategies are requested. Based on the high proportion of patients reporting to be in an acceptable state of both pain and fatigue during periods with aquatic exercises, the intervention should be regarded as an important self-management tool rather than a treatment option assuming long-lasting effects. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The burden of disease in rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease which, if left untreated, leads to functional disability, pain, reduced health-related quality of life and premature mortality. Between 0.5% and 1% of the population are affected worldwide, and between 25 and 50 new cases evolve in a population of 100,000. Practically all patients with RA require initiation with disease-modifying antirheumatic treatment to retard or stop progression, control disease manifestations and reduce the disease burden. If disease course is monitored with adjustment of medication, lifestyle factors, and exercise, as well as physical activity levels, co-morbidities may be prevented in the course of RA. During the last decade, major progress has been made in treating RA through early identification and treatment of the disease. Many patients still experience premature work disability and co-morbidities. For societies, the economic burden of RA is high in terms of direct and indirect costs, including modern drug treatment.

Future perspectives of Smartphone applications for rheumatic diseases self-management

Rheumatic diseases (RD) self-management interventions are designed to improve health-related quality of life, health care utilization, and perceived self-efficacy. Despite these demonstrated good results, there are several issues that hinder or render less appealing these interventions. One economically and socially viable solution is exploiting the potential of Smartphone technology. This potential comes from Smartphones pervasive presence in actual society, combined with the advantages of being personal, intuitive, and computationally powerful, with capability to support applications and assist its user throughout different activities of daily living and environments persistently. With their global acceptance increasing quickly, there is a great opportunity for mobile health in using Smartphone applications for RD self-management. Besides the potential of such applications, research on the development and evaluation of such applications is in the early stages. Therefore, it is important to foresee its future applicability in order to meet the needs of the twenty-first century.

Evaluation of a structured goal planning and tailored follow-up programme in rehabilitation for patients with rheumatic diseases: protocol for a pragmatic, stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial

Background

Comprehensive rehabilitation, involving health professionals from various disciplines, is widely used as an adjunct to pharmacological and surgical treatment in people with rheumatic diseases. However, the evidence for the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of such interventions is limited, and the majority of those who receive rehabilitation are back to their initial health status six to 12 months after discharge.

Methods/design

To evaluate the goal attainment, health effects and cost-effectiveness of a new rehabilitation programme compared to current traditional rehabilitation programmes for people with rheumatic diseases, a stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial will be performed. Patients admitted for rehabilitation at six centres in the south-eastern part of Norway will be invited to participate. In the trial, six participating centres will switch from a control (current rehabilitation programme) to an intervention phase (the new rehabilitation programme) in a randomized order. Supported by recent research, the new programme will be a supplement to the existing programme at each centre, and will comprise four elements designed to enhance and support lifestyle changes introduced in the rehabilitation period: structured goal-planning, motivational interviewing, a self-help booklet and four follow-up telephone calls during the first five months following discharge. The primary outcome will be health-related quality of life and goal attainment, as measured by the Patient Generated Index directly before and after the rehabilitation stay, as well as after six and 12 months. Secondary outcomes will include self-reported pain, fatigue, a global assessment of disease activity and motivation for change (measured on 11-point numeric ratings scales), health-related quality of life as measured by the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) and utility assessed by the SF6D utility index.

The main analysis will be on an intention to treat basis and will assess the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of the structured goal planning and tailored follow-up rehabilitation programme for patients with rheumatic diseases.

Discussion

The findings will constitute an important contribution to more cost-effective- and evidence-based rehabilitation services for people with rheumatic diseases.

Trial registration

ISRCTN91433175.

'What I want clinicians to know'--experiences of people with arthritis

AIM

To explore the perceptions and experiences of people with osteoarthrits (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) regarding the knowledge and skills they want nurses and allied health professionals (AHPs) to have to manage their care needs.

METHOD

Two condition-specific focus groups were conducted in London with five people with OA and eight people with RA in January 2011. A semistructured interview guide was used. The focus groups were audiotaped and the transcripts analysed using content analysis.

RESULTS

Shared and condition-specific themes were identified. The shared themes were: living with pain; the need for self-management; and meaningful consultation. The condition-specific themes were: no experts in OA; and wanting to talk in the RA participants.

CONCLUSION

People with OA and RA wanted nurses and AHPs to listen, empathise and help them to manage their condition, especially the pain. Participants with RA would value psychological support. We need to ensure that nurses and AHPs have the knowledge and skills to address these needs.

Musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and ankle: assessments and treatment options

Musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and ankle are an important public health challenge due to their increasing incidence combined with their substantial negative impact on patients' quality of life. Non-pharmacological treatments serve as the first line of treatment and are frequently used for patients with musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and ankle. This review provides a summary of the assessments and non-invasive treatment options based upon available evidence. Recent studies show that individuals with foot and ankle pain have multiple co-existing impairments in alignment, motion, load distribution and muscle performance that may be evident in static and/or dynamic tasks. In addition, both clinical and epidemiological studies support the inter-dependence between the foot and proximal joints. For instance, aberrant foot structure has been linked to foot osteoarthritis (OA), as well as OA and pain at the knee and hip. Most recently, advances in motion capture technology and plantar load distribution measurement offer opportunities for precise dynamic assessments of the foot and ankle. In individuals with musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and ankle, the chief objectives of treatment are to afford pain relief, restore mechanics (alignment, motion and/or load distribution) and return the patient to their desired level of activity participation. Given that most patients present with multiple impairments, combinational therapies that target foot-specific as well as global impairments have shown promising results. In particular, in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, comprehensive rehabilitation strategies including early detection, foot-based interventions (such as orthoses) and wellness-based approaches for physical activity and self-management have been successful. While significant improvements have been made in the last decade to the assessment and treatment of foot and ankle conditions, few randomised clinical trials specifically have investigated patients with foot or ankle conditions to provide global insights into this area. Consequently, current recommendations vary based upon the scope of studies presented in this review as well as the strength of studies. This review indicates a need for more in-depth investigations into the components of assessment and treatment options for foot and ankle musculoskeletal conditions.

Task-oriented training with computer gaming in people with rheumatoid arthritisor osteoarthritis of the hand: study protocol of a randomized controlled pilot trial

Background

Significant restriction in the ability to participate in home, work and community life results from pain, fatigue, joint damage, stiffness and reduced joint range of motion and muscle strength in people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis of the hand. With modest evidence on the therapeutic effectiveness of conventional hand exercises, a task-oriented training program via real life object manipulations has been developed for people with arthritis. An innovative, computer-based gaming platform that allows a broad range of common objects to be seamlessly transformed into therapeutic input devices through instrumentation with a motion-sense mouse has also been designed. Personalized objects are selected to target specific training goals such as graded finger mobility, strength, endurance or fine/gross dexterous functions. The movements and object manipulation tasks that replicate common situations in everyday living will then be used to control and play any computer game, making practice challenging and engaging.

Methods/Design

The ongoing study is a 6-week, single-center, parallel-group, equally allocated and assessor-blinded pilot randomized controlled trial. Thirty people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis affecting the hand will be randomized to receive either conventional hand exercises or the task-oriented training. The purpose is to determine a preliminary estimation of therapeutic effectiveness and feasibility of the task-oriented training program. Performance based and self-reported hand function, and exercise compliance are the study outcomes. Changes in outcomes (pre to post intervention) within each group will be assessed by paired Student t test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test and between groups (control versus experimental) post intervention using unpaired Student t test or Mann–Whitney U test.

Discussion

The study findings will inform decisions on the feasibility, safety and completion rate and will also provide preliminary data on the treatment effects of the task-oriented training compared with conventional hand exercises in people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis of the hand.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01635582

The effectiveness of hydrotherapy in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Hydrotherapy is frequently indicated for the rehabilitation of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA); nevertheless, there has been inadequate appraisal of its effectiveness. The potential benefits of hydrotherapy for patients with RA are to improve and/or maintain functional ability and quality of life.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of hydrotherapy in the management of patients with RA.

METHOD

AMED, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, Science Direct and Web of Science were searched between 1988 and May 2011. Keywords used were rheumatoid arthritis, hydrotherapy, aquatic physiotherapy, aqua therapy and water therapy. Searches were supplemented with hand searches of references of selected articles. Randomized controlled trials were assessed for their methodological quality using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. This scale ranks the methodological quality of a study scoring 7 out of 10 as 'high quality', 5-6 as 'moderate quality' and less than 4 as 'poor quality'.

RESULTS

Initially, 197 studies were identified. Six studies met the inclusion criteria for further analysis. The average methodological quality for all studies was 6.8 using the PEDro scale. Most of the studies reported favourable outcomes for a hydrotherapy intervention compared with no treatment or other interventions for patients with RA. Improvement was particularly noted in reducing pain, joint tenderness, mood and tension symptoms, and increasing grip strength and patient satisfaction with hydrotherapy treatment in the short term.

CONCLUSIONS

There is some evidence to suggest that hydrotherapy has a positive role in reducing pain and improving the health status of patients with RA compared with no or other interventions in the short term. However, the long-term benefit is unknown. Further studies are needed.

Stages of change, barriers, benefits, and preferences for exercise in RA patients: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To determine the distribution of exercise stages of change in a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) cohort, and to examine patients' perceptions of exercise benefits, barriers, and their preferences for exercise.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty RA patients who attended the Rheumatology Unit of a University Hospital were asked to participate in the study. Those who agreed were administered a questionnaire to determine their exercise stage of change, their perceived benefits and barriers to exercise, and their preferences for various features of exercise.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine (74%) patients were finally included in the analyses. Their mean age was 58.4 years, mean RA duration 10.1 years, and mean disease activity score 2.8. The distribution of exercise stages of change was as follows: precontemplation (n = 30, 34%), contemplation (n = 11, 13%), preparation (n = 5, 6%), action (n = 2, 2%), and maintenance (n = 39, 45%). Compared to patients in the maintenance stage of change, precontemplators exhibited different demographic and functional characteristics and reported less exercise benefits and more barriers to exercise. Most participants preferred exercising alone (40%), at home (29%), at a moderate intensity (64%), with advice provided by a rheumatologist (34%) or a specialist in exercise and RA (34%). Walking was by far the preferred type of exercise, in both the summer (86%) and the winter (51%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our cohort of patients with RA was essentially distributed across the precontemplation and maintenance exercise stages of change. These subgroups of patients exhibit psychological and functional differences that make their needs different in terms of exercise counselling.

Utilisation of rheumatology care services in Germany: the case of physical therapy and self-help groups

Physical Therapy (PT) and self-help groups (SHG) are important components of health care in rheumatic diseases. The utilisation of PT and SHG by patients with rheumatic diseases may be influenced by several factors. The aim of this study is to summarize the evidence on PT and SHG utilisation of patients with rheumatic diseases in Germany. We systematically searched the MEDLINE-database for studies that evaluated the utilisation and factors that possibly influence the utilisation of PT and SHG. Eight studies were found for PT-utilisation and one for SHG-utilisation. Between 25 and 59 percent of patients with rheumatic diseases received PT services. Several individual and contextual factors that may influence the utilisation could be identified. In conclusion, evidence exists for wide variations in the utilisation of PT services and an underuse of such services among patients with rheumatic diseases in Germany. By contrast, little evidence exists on the utilisation of SHG.

"Delivering knowledge and advice": Healthcare providers' experiences of their interaction with patients' management of rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatic diseases are often chronic and involve a lifetime of suffering. The focus of rheumatology care is to support patients to manage their lives and master their disease. Healthcare providers and patients have different views on the consequences of living with rheumatic diseases and patients are reporting unmet healthcare needs. There is a need to integrate providers’ perspective to develop the quality of rheumatology care. The aim was to explore healthcare providers’ experiences of their interaction with patients in their management of RA. Interviews with 18 providers from different clinical settings were analysed in accordance with the grounded theory method. A core category; Delivering knowledge and advice was found to be the most important task and involved providing the patient with information about the disease and appropriate forms of treatment. Healthcare providers’ attitudes and patients’ responses influenced the outcome of the delivery of knowledge and advice and three dimensions emerged; completed delivery, adjusted delivery and failed delivery. There were differences in the providers’ experiences in their interaction with patients as well as in reflections on their role as the delivering part. There could be difficulties in the interaction when patients’ expectations and preferences were not taken into account when giving advice. These findings highlight the importance of developing rheumatology care, as no provider or patient benefits if the delivery of knowledge and advice becomes a failed delivery. The healthcare organization must acknowledge the difficulties involved in the interaction with patients in their management of RA and find methods to develop a more person-centred approach to care.