Name: Hennessy De Jesus

Activity title: Energy Boost

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018, November 8). Physical Activity for Arthritis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/physical-
activity-overview.html.

Guo, L. (2015). Rheumatoid Arthritis. In Recreational therapy for specific diagnoses and
conditions (pp. 327–333). Enumclaw, WA: Idyll Arbor, Inc.

Porter, H. R. (2016). Physical Activity. In Recreational therapy basics, techniques, and

interventions (pp. 403–409). Enumclaw, WA: Idyll Arbor Inc.

Equipment needed:
- Music speaker

Activity Description: The purpose of this activity is to provide participants with a simple stretch
routine that can be used as an energy boost. This activity is best for individuals with Rheumatoid
Arthritis as it promotes physical activity, which is important for preserving joint flexibility,
maintaining mobility and promoting energy.

1. Gather a group that includes 5-10 participants

2. RT will choose a large room with adequate lighting
3. RT will set up music speaker at a low volume to be heard throughout the session
4. RT will direct group to form a circle
5. Participants will follow along and repeat each movement 20 times
a. Rising heels and toes
b. Raising arm to touch opposite leg
c. Turning torso from side to side
d. Touching toes (20 seconds)
e. Arm circles
f. Neck rolls
g. Stretching arms across chest
6. Throughout the activity, RT will encourage participants to focus on their breath and take
their time to not overwork themselves
7. RT will then encourage participants to each model one stretch for the rest of the group to
follow towards the end of the activity

Primary social interaction pattern(s): The primary social interaction pattern of this activity is
intraindividual as the movements being performed involve the mind and body. This also requires
no contact with another person or object, meaning it can be performed independently at any time.
Adaptation: Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic disease in which the lining covering the joints
becomes inflamed causing chronic pain as well as joint damage. This is considered an
autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the musculoskeletal system leading to gradual loss of
function. The body parts most commonly impacted by rheumatoid arthritis are the neck,
shoulders, elbows, hips, knees and ankles. Physical activity has been shown to be beneficial in
improving strength, mobility and balance for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. An adaptation
that can be made to this activity is the use of chairs for participants to be able to take a break if
experiencing fatigue throughout.