Dr. Adam Goode, PT, DPT, PhD, professor of orthopaedic surgery at Duke University and president of the Association of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP), is spearheading Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month (RDAM) 2025 with a strong message: physical activity is a powerful yet underutilized tool in managing rheumatic conditions. This year’s theme, RheumMoves, promotes safe, personalized exercise plans to help patients reduce pain, stiffness, and fatigue—sometimes by as much as 40%.
Dr. Goode highlights the importance of teamwork between patients and healthcare providers, stating:
“RDAM 2025 seeks to close this gap by sharing evidence-based guidance, resources, and support to help individuals safely incorporate exercise into their care plans.”
He also underscores the role of rheumatology professionals in guiding patients, sharing, "That’s why rheumatology health professionals are essential for collaborating with both rheumatologists and patients to establish a safe and sustainable physical activity plan."
RDAM 2025 offers a suite of resources—including exercise videos, social media graphics, and fact sheets—available at RDAM.org, aiming to empower patients and providers alike to move a central part of rheumatic disease care. Read more.