In past posts, we have discovered that many conditions can be improved with health coaching. Today, we will look at a systematic review and meta-analysis that shows how coaching programs help patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis [1].
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects joint linings, causing painful swellings that lead to bone and joint erosion and deformity [2]. It affects over 1.3 million Americans [3].
From a number of past studies, over 900 individuals from 6 randomized controlled trials were analyzed. It was found that the intervention groups (the groups that got coaching services) saw improvements in physical activity levels and pain reduction when compared with the control groups. This portion of the conclusion summarizes the study best:
The reviewed studies indicate that coaching programs are an effective technique for improving physical activity and pain management. The most frequently used methods were face-to-face and telephonic interviews. Coaching programs were conducted between 7-10 sessions per year. Moderate physical activity of 30 minutes/day, at least four days per week, is recommended.
– Sezgin, Merve Gozde et al.
To read the full article, or to learn more about Rheumatoid Arthritis, please visit the links below.
References
[1] Sezgin, M. G., & Bektaş, H. (2023). The Effect of Coaching Programs on Physical Activity and Pain in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Pain Management Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2023.06.009
[2] Rheumatoid arthritis – Symptoms and causes. (2023, January 25). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648
[3] Rheumatoid arthritis facts. (2018, October 27). Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Network. https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/facts-and-statistics/