Vancouver (May 7, 2026) — An international task force with 26 team members, including Arthritis Research Canada affiliate scientist Dr. Denislav Orlinov, reinforces the importance of physical activity for people with arthritis.
The existing European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) recommendations from 2018 for physical activity in people with inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis required an update. A dedicated team representing 17 countries reviewed the latest findings on physical activity for people with inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis, including clinical trials and systematic reviews.
The updated recommendations, published in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, one of the leading journals in the rheumatology field by EULAR, provide practical recommendations for healthcare providers. These guidelines emphasize that not only promoting physical activity but also reducing time spent sitting is beneficial for people with inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis.
“Many people living with arthritis still hesitate to participate in physical activity as they think it could worsen their symptoms, but research clearly shows that physical activity is safe,” said Orlinov. “Even small amounts of movement throughout the day can improve your health and quality of life.”
The recommendations emphasize that physical activity plans should be tailored to individuals’ abilities, needs, and preferences. It also provides practical steps for healthcare providers to support patients with goal setting and follow-up.
Read the full report here.
