Towards optimal intensity

Abstract

Background: There is ample evidence now to suggest that exercise can help ameliorate RMD symptoms and comorbidities. Similar to the prescription of medication, the dosage of exercise should be optimized to achieve the best health benefits. However, a consensus on the dosage of exercise prescription for RMD patients is currently missing.

Objectives: This talk will explore the data required from RMD patients to develop the best exercise prescription, exercise principles and current state-of-the-art, as well as how we can use the current evidence to identify the optimum dosage for the exercise prescription in people with RMDs.

Methods: Suggestions have been synthesized using existing evidence-based resources, including recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses (EULAR, Cochrane Library and peer-reviewed journals publications) as well as randomized controlled trials. Data for the effectiveness of exercise dosage on various different outcomes has been extracted and will be explored.

Results: Different dosages of exercise have differing effects on symptoms of RMDs. The optimal dosage depends on various factors and on the outcome that the exercise prescription aims to improve.

Conclusion: Despite the increasing research on exercise in RMDs, a currently a consensus for the optimal exercise dosage is currently missing. More interdisciplinary research, with a heavy patient involvement, is required in the area.

Disclosure of Interests: None declared