Changes in muscle fibre size and physical performance in patients with rheumatoid arthritis after 7 months physical training.
Ten patients with rheumatoid arthritis of moderate severity were given 7 months' physical training. During the investigation period the patiens improved their physical performance capacity as well as they lowered their rate of perceived exertion during submaximum exercise. There was a small increase in muscle fibre size and a correlation was found between muscle strength and type II fibre size. Clinical examination and X-ray studies did not reveal any further joint destruction during the investigation period.
D000328:Adult; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009119:Muscle Contraction; D009132:Muscles / Q000473:pathology*; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D005082:Physical Exertion; D010809:Physical Fitness