Examining the effects of different exercise levels on arthritis symptoms

Examination of the Dose Response Relationship Between Physical Activity and Arthritis-Attributable Outcomes

Not applicable Interventional University of South Carolina · NCT06880653

This study tests how different amounts of exercise can help people with arthritis feel better over six months.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment285 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of South Carolina Academic / other
Locations1 site (Columbia, South Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06880653 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how varying levels of physical activity (45, 90, or 150 minutes per week) impact symptoms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the three activity goals and will receive a comprehensive 6-month program that includes the Arthritis Foundation's Walk With Ease Guidebook, behavioral lessons, a Fitbit for tracking, and monthly coaching calls. Additional support through calls, texts, or emails will be provided to help participants meet their goals.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with a doctor-diagnosed form of arthritis or related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are contraindicated to exercise or already engage in significant physical activity may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management of arthritis symptoms through tailored exercise regimens.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions for arthritis management, suggesting this approach is promising.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years or older
* Have a doctor diagnosed form of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or fibromyalgia
* Ability to read and write in English

Exclusion Criteria:

* Have any contraindications to exercise (besides arthritis)
* Engage in \>45 min/week of Actigraph assessed moderate to vigorous intensity activity
* Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant in the next year
* Are planning to relocate out of the Columbia, SC area in the next 12 months,
* Do not have a device compatible with Fitbit
* Have uncontrolled hypertension (e.g., systolic blood pressure \> 160 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure \> 100 mmHg)
* Plan to have a surgery that affects mobility in the next 12 months
* Have a serious cognitive impairment.
* Not willing to be randomized to any of the 3 conditions, do not believe they could adhere to the goals, or do not believe they could achieve the highest dose of activity (150 minutes/week).

Where this trial is running

Columbia, South Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ArthritisRheumatoid ArthritisGoutFibromyalgiaOsteoarthritisLupus Erythematosus, Systemicarthritisexercise
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.