Encourage Physical Activity During Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month

Also, yoga may be another option for patients. Recent clinical trial results published in JAMA Network Open found that yoga did not markedly reduce knee pain in those with knee osteoarthritis (OA) compared with strength training—but was noninferior to the intervention. The study authors suggest yoga could be an alternative or complementary exercise in clinical practice to help manage knee OA.²

“Regardless of what type of exercise [is implemented], a consistent and sustainable physical exercise program can lead to numerous health benefits,” Dr. Goode says.

Patients should be reminded they don’t need to devise an exercise routine on their own and that resources are available through the ACR, ARP and their own healthcare providers. 

RDAM Through the Years

The ACR’s Simple Tasks Public Awareness Initiative launched RDAM in September 2016, with a focus on increasing understanding and awareness of rheumatological symptoms and challenges

Other themes have included reproductive health, biosimilars and self-management for those living with rheumatic conditions.

Celebrities who have recorded public service announcements for RDAM are Terry Bradshaw, Jennie Garth and Venus Williams. Components of some previous RDAM campaigns have included a national survey, a report card and a patient-focused webinar.

Vanessa Caceres is a medical writer in Bradenton, Fla.

References

1. Arthritis in America: Time to take action. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC Vital Signs. 2018 Nov 8.
2. Abeita BJ, Singh A, Aitken D, et al. . JAMA Netw Open. 2025 Apr 1;8(4):e253698.