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Community-Based Strength Training Improves Physical Function in Older Women With Arthritis

^* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: jennifer.layne{at}peopleexercising.org.

	Abstract

Exercise is recognized as a mainstay treatment of arthritis, yet more than 40% of adults with arthritis report no leisure time physical activity participation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working to identify and promote evidence-based physical activity programs to improve physical function among adults with arthritis. The authors conducted a multisite, pilot randomized controlled trial to examine the effects of community-based strength training versus usual activity in women (n = 33) 55 years of age and older with arthritis. The moderate-intensity, progressive strength training intervention included balance and flexibility exercises. Classes met 2 times per week for 12 weeks. Outcome measures included muscle strength, performance-based physical function (mobility, flexibility, and balance), and arthritis symptoms. Lower body strength improved from baseline to 12 weeks in the strength training versus control group (32.2%-7.3%, respectively; P = .004). Physical function improved in the strength training group over 12 weeks (range, 7%-50%; P < .05), with no change in control group. Adherence to the intervention was 82% ± 16%. There were no adverse effects on arthritis symptoms. These results demonstrate the efficacy of this program and its potential to be disseminated as an evidence-based strength training intervention to improve physical function and strength among older women with arthritis and other major comorbidities.

First published on July 21, 2009, doi:10.1177/1559827609342061

American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine 2009;3:466.

A more recent version of this article appeared on November 1, 2009


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