Researchers have found that just one session of aerobic exercise may effectively reduce blood pressure in female patients with rheumatoid arthritis and comorbid hypertension, according to a recent study published by de Luna et al in the Journal of Human Hypertension. Twenty female patients with both conditions were randomly assigned to partake in a 30-minute treadmill exercise or no exercise. Researchers measured the patients’ systolic blood pressure at rest and in response to the Stroop-Color Word Test, the Cold Pressor Test, and an isometric handgrip test both prior to and following the exercise session. The patients’ blood pressure levels were also monitored for 24 hours after exercise. The researchers discovered that those who exercised experienced reduced resting systolic blood pressure of –5 ± 9 mmHg and reduced blood pressure in response to the Stroop-Color Word Test (–7 ± 14 mmHg) as well as the Cold Pressor Test (–5 ± 11 mmHg). However, they reported no reductions in resting diastolic blood pressure and in response to the isometric handgrip test or 24-hour monitoring. The researchers concluded that exercise interventions may help manage hypertension in this patient population.