[Effects of exercise in water [hydrotherapy] on pain relief and extended range of motion in rheumatoid arthritis patients]

ABSTRACT

Prior investigators have demonstrated the positive effects of exercise on pain relief and extended range of motion in rheumatoid arthritis [RA] patients. The present study was designed to determine the effects of these exercises in water [hydrotherapy]. In a clinical trial, a total of 32 adult females were equally assigned in experimental and control groups. At baseline, demographic data, patients' pain and range of motion were determined. Then, the experimental group was advised associated hydrotherapy activities, finally, 6 weeks later, they were reassessed. The mean pain severity was reduced in both experimental and control groups [p<0.0007, p<0.03, respectively], however, pain severity reduction was more significant in hydrotherapy group. Range of motion was also significantly increased in hydrotherapy group, when compared with controls [p<0.05]. Hydrotherapy could effectively reduce pain severity and increase range of motion in RA patients