Treatment-Seeking Behaviors of Persons With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Describe perceptions of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) regarding disease-related pain, tendency to tell others about their pain, and treatments used since diagnosis.

Cross sectional, exploratory.

A total of 63 participants responded to telephone interview about their treatments and tendency to tell others about their RA pain. They also responded to McGill Pain Questionnaire and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) items. Participants marked pain location on mailed body outlines.

RA diagnosis occurred an average of 11 years prior. Mean HAQ Standard Disability Index score was 1.26. Previous week symptoms were joint pain (97%), joint swelling (83%), decreased movement/function (83%), fatigue (70%), muscle weakness (65%). Mean morning stiffness duration was 120 ± 137 minutes. Mean pain intensity was 1.15 ± 0.6 at its least and 3.8 ± 1.1 at its worst. 65% were not satisfied with pain levels. 57% stated a tendency not to tell others about their pain; 43% tended to tell. 78% used medications and alternative therapies, none solely used alternative therapies, and 22% only used medications.

RA patients reported high rates of alternative therapy use. Dissatisfaction with pain levels indicates need for improved pain management. Not talking about pain lends insights into the importance of teaching patients to communicate their pain to others.