Relationship between functional capacity, joint mobility and pulmonary function in patients with systemic sclerosis

In systemic sclerosis (SS), pulmonary involvement is currently the leading cause of mortality. Joint impairments limit the range of motion (ROM), which may reduce the functional capacity of these patients.

To assess the correlation between the functional capacity, joints mobility, and pulmonary function parameters in adults with SS.

This was a cross-sectional study including ten SS patients who underwent goniometry, spirometry, carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLco) assessment, and the 6-min walk distance (6 MWD).

Significant correlations were found between the 6 MWD and the tibiotarsal plantarflexion ROM (r = 0.65; P < 0.01), tibiotarsal dorsiflexion ROM (r = 0.64; P < 0.01), and hip adduction ROM (0.52; P < 0.05). Significant correlation was also observed between the 6 MWD and DLco (r = 0.61; P < 0.01).

Although the 6 MWD can be influenced by cardiovascular and pulmonary impairments in SS, our results suggest that the musculoskeletal dysfunction play an important role in the functional capacity of these patients.