Does Physical Activity Differ Among Those with Autoimmune vs Non-Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases?

Poster Presenter: Sydney Liles, PT, DPT, MS; PhD student, Biomechanics and Movement Science Program, University of Delaware

Poster Title: Does Physical Activity Differ Among Those with Autoimmune vs Non-Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases?

Poster Session B: 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. on Monday, October 27

What is your poster about?

“This poster examines whether physical activity levels differ between adults with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis) and those with non-autoimmune rheumatic diseases (e.g., osteoarthritis, gout, fibromyalgia). Using data from the Observational Arthritis Foundation Internet Study, we compared moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, walking time, sitting time, and inactivity classifications across groups.”

Why did you decide to investigate this topic?

“Physical activity is critical for managing rheumatic diseases, as it helps reduce symptoms and lowers cardiovascular risk. However, many people with these conditions struggle to meet recommended activity levels. Autoimmune and non-autoimmune rheumatic diseases differ in both symptoms and treatments, which may influence physical activity in different ways, but little research has compared these groups directly. By addressing this gap, we can better design personalized strategies to support people with rheumatic diseases in staying active.”

What are you working on next related to this research?

“Next, I plan to examine additional factors that influence physical activity and participation among individuals with rheumatic diseases, including physical therapy utilization, psychosocial influences, and environmental factors. I will also expand this work to adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) to better understand their unique challenges and develop strategies that promote lifelong engagement in physical activity.”

What excites you most about your work?

“I’m excited by the opportunity to bridge research and clinical care to improve the quality of life for people with rheumatic diseases. By understanding how disease processes shape physical activity and participation, we can create personalized, evidence-based recommendations that empower patients to stay active and engaged in the activities that matter most to them.”

What are you most looking forward to at ACR Convergence 2025 in Chicago?

“I’m looking forward to connecting with researchers and clinicians, sharing ideas, and learning about the latest advances in rheumatology and rehabilitation science. I’m especially excited to explore new work on promoting physical activity and developing patient-centered interventions for people with arthritis.”