One-third of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) will suffer a fall at least once a year irrespective of their age, a new study has found.

RA is a chronic and often painful disease affecting the joints, causing them to become inflamed. An inflamed joint looks swollen and red and appears warm to touch. This inflammation can lead to permanent damage in the joints if the disease is not treated. Around 40,000 people in Ireland are affected.

The study from the University of Manchester in the UK followed the progress of almost 600 people with RA, aged between 18 and 88.

According to findings, one in 10 falls resulted in a fracture or serious head injury, while at least half of falls lead to injuries such as bruising and pain.

The study found that those who had suffered a previous fall were at an increased risk of falling again, as a result of previous injuries and an increased fear of falling.

In fact, a person who had suffered a fall was three times more likely to suffer a further fall within 12 months of the first one.

"Our study successfully shows adults with rheumatoid arthritis are at a high risk of repeated falls. Increased fear of falling and injuries can lead to sedentary behaviour, which in turn decreases muscle strength - one of the most common factors that contribute to falls," explained lead researcher, Emma Stanmore.

She pointed out that in many cases, falls ‘aren't just random'.

"They can be predicted and possibly prevented by assessing and treating a number of risk factors in adults with the condition," she said.

Noted risk factors among those with RA included fatigue and the use of psychotropic medication for health issues such as depression and sleeping problems. The researchers said these are some of the things healthcare professionals should look out for in people with RA.

"We hope our findings will be used for further research to develop a falls prevention programme which could include exercises to target lower limb muscle strength and challenge balance along with a review of medication," Ms Stanmore said.

Details of these findings are published in the Journal, Arthritis Care and Research.

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