An Alternative Assessment in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: 6 Minute Step Test

Although joint involvement is predominant, RA is a systemic disease that can affect many organs. RA is a disease that includes changes such as inflammation, joint pain, fatigue, increased risk of coronary and heart disease. In patients with RA, exercises should be planned for decreased muscle strength, endurance, aerobic capacity and affected normal joint movements. Aerobic exercise capacity should be measured for individualized exercise planning in rehabilitation. Bicycle ergometer, one of the aerobic capacity tests, has been used in rehabilitation for a long time. Although it is frequently used in rehabilitation, it has some disadvantages. Therefore, other tests such as the step test can be used to eliminate these disadvantages of the bicycle ergometer and to assess functional capacity. The 6-minute step test (6MST), which requires less time and space, can be used as an alternative to assess exercise capacity. Patients will be evaluated at Firat University Hospital. Patients diagnosed with RA, older than 18 years of age and with a body weight of 100 kg or less (maximum weight supported by the stepper) will be included in the study.