Rheumatoid arthritis evaluated by locomotion score. A population study

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Epidemiology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting joints.
• Locomotion status is a key indicator of functional ability in RA patients.
• Understanding RA's impact on mobility is crucial for patient care and surgical planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effects of rheumatoid arthritis on locomotion status in a Swedish population.
• To determine the prevalence of RA and its impact on mobility across different demographics.
• To evaluate the need for reconstructive surgery in RA patients.

Main Methods:

• Epidemiological study of a representative Swedish population sample (12,707 inhabitants).
• Inclusion of 82 patients meeting American Rheumatism Association (ARA) criteria for RA.
• Clinical evaluation using a total locomotion score (0-100), subjective and objective scores, and assessment for surgical intervention.

Main Results:

• Prevalence of RA was 0.65% overall (0.51% men, 0.78% women).
• Mean total locomotion score was 72, with women over 64 showing significantly lower scores than men (p<0.02).
• 44% of patients underwent reconstructive surgery, with 56% indicated for further surgery, including 58 major joint replacements.

Conclusions:

• Rheumatoid arthritis significantly impairs locomotion, particularly in older women.
• A substantial proportion of RA patients require reconstructive surgery, highlighting the disease's severity.
• Locomotion scores are significantly lower in patients needing surgery, underscoring the functional decline.