Assessing exercise capacity in rheumatoid arthritis patients using a 6-minute step test
An Alternative Assessment in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Comparing Bicycle Ergometer and 6 Minute Step Test and Proving the Validity of the 6 Minute Step Test
This study is testing if a simple 6-minute step test can help people with rheumatoid arthritis measure their exercise ability better than the usual bike test.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Firat University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Merkez, Elâzığ) |
| Trial ID | NCT06838884 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of the 6-minute step test (6MST) as an alternative method to assess aerobic exercise capacity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The research aims to address the limitations of the traditional bicycle ergometer test, which can be inconsistent and requires expensive equipment. By utilizing the 6MST, which is simpler and requires less space, the study seeks to provide a more accessible means of evaluating functional capacity for individualized rehabilitation planning. Patients diagnosed with RA will be assessed at Firat University Hospital, focusing on their ability to walk independently.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis who weigh 100 kg or less and can walk independently.
Not a fit: Patients with serious heart or lung diseases, severe musculoskeletal disorders, or those unable to participate in physical tests will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies tailored to the specific exercise capacities of RA patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of functional capacity tests like the 6MST is gaining attention, this specific application in RA patients is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * RA patient * Over 18 years of age * 100 kilos or less * Patients who can walk independently without an assistive device Exclusion Criteria: * History of serious heart and lung disease * Presence of severe musculoskeletal and joint disorders that may interfere with the conduct of the test * Arthroplasty or major operations on knee and hip joints * Uncontrolled hypertension * Inability to participate in physical tests involving walking and cycling
Where this trial is running
Merkez, Elâzığ
- Firat University — Merkez, Elâzığ, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Havvagül Doğan
- Email: havvvaguldogan@gmail.com
- Phone: +904242370000
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.