Effectiveness of physical exercise on foot pain and function in adults with rheumatoid arthritis: systematic review and meta-analysis
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By
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March 21, 2026
Objective:
To synthesize available evidence on the effects of physical exercise on foot pain and function in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and to compare the effects of different exercise modalities directly.
Key Findings:
- Exercise interventions can improve foot pain and function in RA patients, but optimal exercise prescription parameters regarding intensity and duration need further investigation.
- Different exercise modalities may have varying effects on foot health.
Interpretation:
The findings support the incorporation of exercise as a non-pharmacological strategy in managing foot pain and functionality in RA, emphasizing the need for tailored exercise programs that consider individual patient needs.
Limitations:
- Limited focus on foot-specific outcomes in existing studies.
- Variability in exercise modalities and protocols across studies.
- Potential publication bias may limit the generalizability of the findings and the exclusion of non-English studies.
Conclusion:
Exercise is beneficial for managing foot pain and improving functionality in adults with RA, warranting further research to optimize exercise prescriptions.
