Effects of Resistance Training on Inflammatory Markers, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Pulmonary Function in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

• DOI: 10.61919/fp2g2996
• Publication Date: 2025-05-14T12:35:21Z
• Authors: Aqsa Riaz; Amina Shahzadi; Neelum Mehmood; Ayesha Yousaf; Sidra Faisal

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by systemic inflammation, progressive joint damage, and increased risk of cardiopulmonary complications. While pharmacological therapies target inflammatory pathways, resistance training has gained attention for its potential to improve physical immunological outcomes. However, limited data exist regarding isolated effects on markers, cardiorespiratory fitness, pulmonary function in RA patients. Objective: To evaluate the structured program patients with RA. Methods: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted at Ittefaq Hospital, Lahore, enrolling 48 aged 40–65 years (n = 24 per group) using non-probability convenient sampling. Participants stable disease sedentary lifestyles were included, while those comorbid conditions excluded. Group received 12 weeks thrice weekly, B underwent conventional physiotherapy. Outcomes assessed pre- post-intervention 6-minute walk test (6MWT), spirometry (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC), markers (CRP, ESR, WBC). Ethical approval obtained accordance Declaration Helsinki. Statistical analysis performed SPSS v24, employing Shapiro-Wilk, Mann-Whitney U, Wilcoxon tests (α 0.05). Results: Significant within-group improvements observed 6MWT (mean rank increase from 13.5 36.5, p < 0.001), FVC (2.83 ± 0.20 L 3.15 0.22 L, (CRP 0.001). Between-group differences not statistically significant (p > 0.05) but indicated clinically meaningful trends favoring experimental group. Conclusion: Resistance significantly enhances functional capacity, function, inflammation These findings support integration exercise as an effective, accessible intervention clinical rehabilitation improving quality life reducing burden.