In 2004, a comprehensive study conducted by Arja Häkkinen, et. al., the impact of a 2-year home-based strength-training program on physical function in individuals with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was investigated. The study further evaluated the sustainability of the observed benefits over a 3-year follow-up period.

Seventy participants with early RA were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (EG) performing strength training or the control group (CG) engaging in range-of-motion exercises. Maximal strength values were meticulously recorded using dynamometers. Various parameters, including the Modified Disease Activity Score (DAS28), pain levels, Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), walking speed, and stair-climbing speed, were assessed throughout the study.

Over the 2-year training period, the EG exhibited a notable increase of 19-59% in maximal strength across assessed muscle groups, a gain that persisted over the subsequent 3 years. In contrast, the CG demonstrated a more modest improvement of 1-31% in muscle strength. During the training phase, the EG experienced a 50% reduction in DAS28 and a 67% decrease in pain, surpassing the 45% and 39% reductions observed in the CG, respectively. Notably, the advantages in muscle strength, DAS28, and HAQ favoring the EG were sustained at both the 2-year and 5-year follow-up assessments.

This groundbreaking study establishes the enduring benefits of a 2-year home-based strength-training program in patients with early RA. The remarkable improvements in muscle strength, disease activity, and functional ability observed during the initial training period persisted for an additional 3 years, showcasing the long-term efficacy of this intervention. These findings underscore the potential of targeted strength training as a valuable and sustainable component in the management of early rheumatoid arthritis.

Reference: Häkkinen, A., Sokka, T., & Hannonen, P. (2004). A home‐based two‐year strength training period in early rheumatoid arthritis led to good long‐term compliance: a five‐year followup. Arthritis Care & Research, 51(1), 56-62.