MedPage Today reports on the findings of a study which set out to determine if voluntary running had an impact on the chronicity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and demonstrated the high-impact does have an effect. Additionally, running on a treadmill suppresses bone erosion and the progression of bone loss, as compared to running overground, advising physicians to account for ground conditions when recommending running to patients.

Anne R. Bass, MD, rheumatologist at HSS, provided written commentary to MedPage Today related to the research findings, stating, "When they [patients] first develop arthritis and it's active, most stop running on their own. For those who haven't stopped, or who just want to know what they should do, I generally advise them not to run on an inflamed joint.” However, she cited, "If their rheumatoid arthritis comes under excellent control, however, they often return to running.”

Dr. Bass underscored the importance for patients with rheumatoid arthritis to remain physically active and fit. "Although high impact exercise, such as running, is not always possible (especially if the arthritis doesn't come under perfect control), there are many other ways to exercise -- such as swimming, cycling, and using an elliptical or a stationary bike," she noted.

Furthermore, while she hasn't seen running cause flares in her RA patients, Dr. Bass advised patients be mindful of their disease. "Hold off on running until your rheumatoid arthritis [RA] comes under very good control, but in the meantime continue to do low impact exercise so you can stay fit," she wrote.

Read the full article at MedPageToday.com.