Nordic walking and autoimmune conditions
A study
of Nordic walking and Sjögren’s Syndrome showed benefits to people with the
chronic condition.
Sjögren’s Syndrome
is an autoimmune disorder similar to lupus. People
with lupus have a chance of having Sjögren’s Syndrome as an additional disorder.
In the study, 21
women with Sjögren’s Syndrome undertook Nordic walking for 45 minutes three
times a week for 12 weeks. The researchers looked at these factors:
- Aerobic capacity
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Health-related quality of life
Findings:
- The women's aerobic capacity improved, and they had reduced fatigue.
- They also experienced significant improvements in reducing depression.
- However, there were no significant changes in anxiety scores and perceptions of health-related quality of life.
In general, the
researchers considered the exercise to be useful in managing the chronic
condition.
