Ñeco Valle, Juan C.

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    The effect on behavioral change with respects to physical activity in participants with rheumatoid arthritis through a water-based exercise program
    (2016) Ñeco Valle, Juan C.; Quiñones, Carlos E.; College of Arts and Sciences - Arts; Silva, Manuel; Rodríguez, Diana; Department of Kinesiology; Powers, Christopher
    Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a serious deterioration of the cartilage that covers the joints in the bones, which are important during any kind of movement. The causes are not clear although a genetic disposition is considered the number one catalyst for the disease. Puerto Ricans reported the highest age-adjusted prevalence of arthritis with 21.8 % (American College of Rheumatology, 2013). Although there is no cure for RA, physical activity is considered the most effective way to treat these limitations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects on change in behavior with respect to physical activity in participants with RA, through a water-based exercise program. The following is the research hypothesis: There will be a positive change in behavior with respect to physical activity in participants with RA, after having participated in a water-based exercise program. The research questions addressed in the study are: 1) How RA related pain and stiffness in the joints during common daily activities affect the participants’ change in behavior with respect to physical activities?; 2) Are there changes in the amount of pain that RA participants normally experience after engaging in a water-based exercise program; and if so, how is the change in pain affecting participant? 3) After participating in water-based exercise program will RA participant want to continue exercising? If so, what type of exercises? The study’s results presented positive change in RA participant’s behavior towards physical activity, even when RA pain increased. Participants engaged in physical activity out of the water but only because it was the most attainable thing for them to do. After the water-based exercises the participants were able to do activities that they were unable to do before due to limitations.