Maintain independence by Moving more:

Whilst there is limited data in relation to physical activity and connective tissues disease, exercise based interventions improved fatigue and physical fitness in SLE [1-2,5] and there were improvements seen in disease activity score in Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis patients [3,6] .  Exercise programmes were safe and do not adversely affect disease activity in those with SLE [6]. Motivating patients to keep physically active can help maintain independence and allow them to continue with employment and perform key activities.

Quality of evidence:

Grade B– Moderate Quality

Strength of recommendation

Grade 2 – weak Recommendation

Conclusion:

There is some moderate quality evidence that exercise interventions can help maintain independence and they do not affect disease activity scores.

References:

1. O’Dwyer T, Durcan L, Wilson F. Exercise and physical activity in systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review with meta-analyses. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2017;47(2):204-215.
2. Yuen HK, Cunningham MA. Optimal management of fatigue in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2014;10:775-786.
3. Alemo Munters L, Dastmalchi M, Andgren V, et al. Improvement in health and possible reduction in disease activity using endurance exercise in patients with established polymyositis and dermatomyositis: a multicenter randomized controlled trial with a 1-year open extension followup. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2013;65(12):1959-1968.
4. Department of Health. Start Active, Stay Active. In: Strategy; 2011.
5. Tench CM, McCarthy J, McCurdie I, White PD, D’cruz DP. Fatigue in systemic lupus erythematosus: a randomized controlled trial of exercise. Rheumatology. 2003 Sep 1;42(9):1050-4.
6. Wiesinger GF, Quittan M, Graninger M, Seeber A, Ebenbichler G, Sturm B, Kerschan K, Smolen J, Graninger W. Benefit of 6 months long-term physical training in polymyositis/dermatomyositis patients. British journal of rheumatology. 1998 Dec 1;37(12):1338-42.