Hand function and total locomotion status in rheumatoid arthritis. An epidemiologic study

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Epidemiology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease known for its destructive effects on joints.
• Hand function and overall mobility are crucial for maintaining independence and quality of life in RA patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of rheumatoid arthritis on hand function and total locomotion status in a Swedish population.
• To investigate the correlation between hand function, disease progression, and healthcare utilization.

Main Methods:

• Population-based study of 12,707 inhabitants in Sweden.
• Identification of 82 RA cases meeting American Rheumatism Association (ARA) criteria.
• Evaluation of 77 RA patients using Sollerman's hand function test and a total locomotion score.

Main Results:

• Prevalence of RA was 0.7% in the studied population.
• Mean hand function score was 61 (out of 80), with no significant difference between hands or sexes.
• Hand function declined with increasing patient age and disease duration, and was highly correlated with locomotion status and hospital care.
• Total medical and social costs were primarily associated with lower extremity status, not hand function.

Conclusions:

• Rheumatoid arthritis significantly affects hand function and mobility, with functional decline linked to disease progression and age.
• While hand function influences hospital care needs, the economic burden of RA is more closely tied to lower extremity impairment.