In RA, joint structure is damaged due to destructive inflammation in the synovium. This condition negatively affects the patient's level of physical activity. As the patient becomes more immobile, their muscle mass and strength decrease and their aerobic capacity declines. One of the drug groups used in the pharmacological treatment of RA is anti-TNF-α drugs. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of anti-TNF-α and non-TNF-α drug treatments on aerobic capacity, muscle strength, fatigue, cardiorespiratory risk factors, and disease activity in RA patients.
Diagnosed with RA according to the 2010 American College of Rheumatology (ACR-2010) criteria
Be between 18 and 65 years of age
Be literate
Have been using one of the anti-TNF-α or non-TNF-α drugs for a period of 1-3 years
Being pregnant or having a diagnosis of malignancy
Having a dysfunction that would limit physical activity (cycling for aerobic capacity assessment), such as severe neurological involvement, immobility, or incooperation
Having a regular exercise habit (reporting a habit of exercising 3 or more days per week)
Having another chronic disease