Related Experiment Videos
Driving problems in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Ann B Cranney1, Adam Harrison, Lucia Ruhland
1Ottawa Health Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada. ancranney@ohri.ca
The Journal of Rheumatology
|December 7, 2005
Summary
Over half of rheumatoid arthritis patients experience driving difficulties, primarily due to pain and stiffness. Higher disability scores (HAQ-DI) significantly predict driving limitations and discontinuation in RA patients.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Occupational Therapy
- Transportation Safety
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) significantly impacts patients' functional status and quality of life.
- Driving is a crucial activity for independence, yet RA-related symptoms may impair driving ability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate driving problems in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- To investigate the correlation between functional status and driving difficulties in RA patients.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey of 721 RA patients from urban and rural areas was conducted.
- The survey included the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ-DI) and co-morbidity questionnaires.
- Driving status, driving difficulties, and use of vehicle adaptations were assessed.
Main Results:
- 92.2% of RA patients were current drivers, with over 50% reporting some driving difficulty.
- Stiffness and pain were primary reasons for driving limitations.
- Higher HAQ-DI scores (≥1), frequent mobility aid use, and older age predicted driving discontinuation.
- Increased disability (HAQ-DI) correlated with more driving problems and reduced driving.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of RA patients experience driving difficulties.
- Functional status, particularly HAQ-DI scores, is associated with driving impairment in RA.
- Further research is needed to validate these findings.