ABSTRACT
We performed electromyographic observations of M. deltoideus, M. biceps, M. triceps brachii, and extensor and flexor muscles of the right forearms of four healthy males (22.3 years old average) during various exercises of the right upper extremity on ground and in water. All electromyographic activities were examined through integral analysis. During exercise in water, the proximal part of the upper arm showed a significantly lower electric discharge than that for the exercises on the ground (p<0.05). Furthermore, forearm muscles showed significantly higher electrical discharge than that for the same exercise on the ground (p<0.05). We investigated the effects of therapeutic exercises in water in a temperature-adjusted pool on 15 female patients with rheumatoid arthritis (average 48.0 years old, Stage 2.3, and Class 1.9). The respiratory function, dorsal muscle power, power around a knee, grasping power, elasticity of the trunk and lower extremities, Lansbury index, and Japan Orthopedic Association's judgment score for rheumatoid arthritic knees were improved significantly (p<0.05) after an eight-week course of therapeutic exercises in water (two session a week). The result of a psychological test showed that their mental conditions were significantly improved (p<0.01) by therapeutic exercises in water. No aggravation of inflammatory reactions was observed in serological examinations before and after the exercise. We concluded that therapeutic exercise in water was an effective treatment method for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
ABSTRACT
In Kampo therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Keishi-ka-ryojutsubu-to, Keishini-eppi-itto and Keishi-shakuyaku-chimo-to are considered to be the primary formulas. However, it is often difficult to control arthritis with the primary formula alone. In this study, we administered 7.5g/day of Ji-daboku-ippo to 12 patients with RA, who had not responded sufficiently to the primary formula alone. Administration of the primary formula and other anti-rheumatoid drugs was also continued.<br>After three months of this supplemental administration of Ji-daboku-ippo, the mean±SE of the Lansbury's index significantly decreased from 45.3±5.8% to 33.3±3.8% (p<0. 01). After treatment for one year, a decrement in the Lensbury's index (of more than 20%) was seen in the four patients. These results suggest that supplemental administration of Ji-daboku-ippo is effective for patients who fail to respond sufficiently to the primary Kampo formulas used for RA.