This study will evaluate if the combination of resistance exercise and protein supplementation will increase muscle strength and muscle mass among older individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
This study proposes a randomized trial to evaluate a tailored 16-week resistance exercise program, in combination with protein supplementation, for older individuals with RA. The exercise protocol in this study is distinctive because it combines dynamic and isometric (static) resistance exercise performed on specialized equipment that can accommodate the range of motion limitations frequently encountered in the older RA population. This study will also begin to evaluate if additional benefit can be achieved with daily protein supplementation
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
23
whey protein plus casein protein
The twice daily placebo will consist of a carbohydrate and a small amount of protein
All participants will be enrolled in an individually supervised twice weekly (for 16 weeks) resistance exercise program
Johns Hopkins Bayview Campus
Baltimore, Maryland, United States
Body composition
measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) (lean mass vs fat mass)
Time frame: after 16 weeks
Muscle strength
measured by hand grip and biodex
Time frame: after 16 weeks
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