| The purpose of the study was to assess the effects of aquatic resistance equipment on the well-being in persons with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 39 subjects were divided into a resistance group (n=14), non resistance group (n=10) and a control group (n=7). The exercise groups trained twice a week for 8 weeks in an aquatic exercise program that followed the guidelines of the Arthritis Foundations Aquatic Program (AFAP) emphasizing muscle strengthening and range of motion exercises. The control group engaged in normal daily activities. Pre and post test measurements included 1RM's on the lat pulldown and chest press, grip strength, sit and reach, a series of senior fitness tests and the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 (AIMS2) questionnaire. Both exercise groups showed significant (p<0.05) increases in the chair stand, bicep curls, 8 foot up and go, lat pulldown, chest press between pre and post tests. The resistance group significantly (p<0.05) improved on the grip strength test on both right and left hands and on the family support scale between pre and post tests. The non resistance group significantly (p<0.05) improved on the left back scratch test. There was a significant (p<0.05) main effect for time on the pain scale, overall satisfaction of the 12 scales on the AIMS2, 2 minute step test and sit and reach test with all groups improving. The findings suggest that individuals with arthritis can improve in strength and functional fitness without any increase in pain by using aquatic resistive equipment. |
