Rheumatologists recognize running as a beneficial activity for rheumatic arthritis (RA) patients, noting improvements in cardiovascular fitness and mental health. Key factors for safe running include disease stability and symptom-guided pacing. However, concerns about joint damage and a lack of specific guidelines hinder their recommendations. The study highlights varying opinions among rheumatologists regarding running's benefits, with recommendations stressing gradual progression, community programs, and individualized patient goals.
1. Running offers physical and mental health benefits for RA patients. 2. Disease stability is essential before recommending running. 3. Significant barriers include patient fears and a lack of RA-specific evidence. 4. Symptom-guided pacing helps manage running activities. 5. Recommendations emphasize individualized patient goals. 6. Physiotherapy support is advisable. 7. Community initiatives like Parkrun are beneficial. 8. Rheumatologists' running experience influences recommendations.
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