Correlation of Functional Ability of the Hand with Upper Limb Function and Quality of Life in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

BACKGROUND / OBJECTIVES: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with significant pain and deformities, where individuals continue to perform activities with reduced abilities. Fatigue and functional disability ensues with the progressive nature of the disease. The study was designed to observe the correlation between the Functional Ability of the Hand with Upper Limb function and Quality of Life in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

METHODS: 75 patients diagnosed with RA who were classified in Class I, II, III as per the revised criteria for Classification of Functional Status as given by the American College of Rheumatology were asked to perform the Grip Ability Test to calculate the Hand function. They were then asked to grade their Upper limb function on the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire and Quality of Life on the Health Assessment Questionnaire- Disability Index. The scores were analyzed and statistical analysis was done using the Spearmann Rho Correlation.

RESULTS: A total of 75 patients (68 females, 7 males) were included. The mean age of the patients was 41.10 years, with the range being from 19 to 55 years. The Hand function, upper limb function and Quality of life was affected in varying degrees amongst the patients.

CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that, there is a moderate positive correlation between the functional ability of the hand and upper limb function, a moderate positive correlation between the functional ability of the hand and quality of life and a strong positive correlation between the upper limb function and quality of life. Thus we need to incorporate newer techniques and approaches to assessment and treatment for enhancing functioning of the upper extremity, thus reducing disability.