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Patient education program to teach energy conservation behaviors to patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a pilot study
Gerber L, Furst G, Shulman B, Smith C, Thornton B, Liang M, Cullen K, Stevens MB, Gilbert N
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 1987 Jul;68(7):442-445
clinical trial
4/10 [Eligibility criteria: Yes; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: No; Baseline comparability: Yes; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: No; Adequate follow-up: Yes; Intention-to-treat analysis: No; Between-group comparisons: Yes; Point estimates and variability: No. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

We report a prospective, randomized pilot study comparing a new workbook-based program, designed to teach patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) energy conservation behaviors, with standard occupational therapy (OT). Sixteen patients took part in the new program and nine received the standard therapy. Data on the number of tender or swollen joints, grip strength, walk time, activities of daily living, psychologic adjustment to illness, and daily activity log, were measured before and three months after intervention. Eleven percent of those who received standard therapy and 50% of those who received the workbook increased their amount of physically active time (p = 0.10). Twenty-two percent of the control group and 50% of those in the workbook group achieved a better balance of rest and physical activity (p = 0.07). We conclude that the adoption of energy conservation behaviors is different in the two groups. This initial study suggests that interrupting physical activity with rest periods may result in increased physical activity in patients with RA.

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