In a nutshell
This study examined the effects of exercise on mood when arthritis patients experience fatigue.
Some background
40-80% of rheumatoid arthritis patients and 41-56% of osteoarthritis patients experience fatigue. Fatigue is associated with physiological issues, pain and disability. When patients experience fatigue, their mood declines and they are inclined to rest.
Regular physical activity can maintain joint strength in arthritis patients. It is also known to improve the mood of arthritis patients. It is believed that exercise can reduce the negative impact fatigue has on mood.
Methods & findings
This study aimed to determine whether daily exercise could alter the impact fatigue has on mood in arthritis patients. This study involved 142 arthritis patients. 70 participants had rheumatoid arthritis and 72 had osteoarthritis.
Participants recorded fatigue, pain levels and mood in a diary 4 times a day for 7 consecutive days. Participants also wore a pedometer at the waist throughout the day to assess the degree of physical activity. Pedometer (device that records the number of steps taken) readings were recorded at the end of each day.
On days when participants experienced high fatigue, a lower mood was reported. However, an increase in exercise on days when high fatigue was experienced resulted in an improvement in mood.
The bottom line
This study concluded that exercise can reduce the negative impact which fatigue has on mood in arthritis patients.
The fine print
More women than men were included in the study. In addition, the type of physical activity was not recorded. Therefore, it is not known whether participants were carrying out exercise purposefully or whether the physical activity was part of their daily routine.
What’s next?
Consult your physician regarding the benefits of exercise on your mental health and feelings of fatigue.
Published By :
Arthritis Care & Research
Date :
Mar 16, 2015