Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients With Fat Limbs Suffer More Disability

People with rheumatoid arthritis who have more fat on their arms and legs tend to suffer more disability associated with the disease. According to a report in the October issue of Arthritis Care & Research, researchers assessed body composition and disability in 197 men and women with rheumatoid arthritis. Study participants were asked to respond to a standard Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) which rated their ability or inability to perform usual daily living activities.

Patients who had more fat on their arms and legs had higher HAQ scores (worse physical function). Patients who had more lean mass (more muscle) on their arms and legs had lower HAQ scores (better physical function). While other factors also contribute to disability -- in an effort to improve physical function and reduce disability -- rheumatoid arthritis patients should focus on muscle strengthening and fat loss.

Related Resources:

• Exercise Is Essential for Arthritis
• Arthritis Affects Daily Living Activities
• Physical Therapy Goals for Arthritis Patients
• Advice for Arthritis Patients About Weight Loss
• Being Overweight Can Prevent Remission of Rheumatoid Arthritis

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