Exercise training as a treatment for rheumatoid cachexia in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Merve Karapınar, Adnan Karaibrahimoğlu, Ferdi Başkurt, Zeliha Başkurt

2025

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DOI 10.1080/10833196.2025.2505295
Data confidence 70 medium
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Abstract

Background Rheumatoid cachexia (RC) in rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by decreased muscle mass and increased fat mass due to chronic inflammation. Exercise may help counteract these adverse changes.Objective To assess the effects of exercise on fat mass (FM), lean body mass (LBM), and isometric knee extensor strength in rheumatoid arthritis patients.Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis included randomized controlled and controlled trials. A random-effects model was used to pool effect sizes.Results Six studies with 119 rheumatoid arthritis patients were analysed. Exercise programs (12–24 weeks) included resistance, proprioceptive, and water-based exercises. Exercise significantly reduced FM [SMD −0.20, 95% CI (-1.20, 0.79), p < 0.001], increased LBM [SMD 0.66, 95% CI (-0.77, 2.09), p < 0.001], and improved knee extensor strength [SMD 3.01, 95% CI (0.59, 5.43), p < 0.001].Conclusion Exercise reduces fat mass, increases lean body mass, and improves muscle strength in rheumatoid arthritis patients, helping to counteract rheumatoid cachexia.