Association between upper extremity dysfunction and sleep disturbance in an elderly general population

Several upper extremity disorders are associated with sleep disturbance in patient populations. This study evaluated the relation between self-assessment of upper extremity function and sleep disturbance in an elderly general population.

A total of 159 participants (56 men, 103 women, 38-88 years old, mean age of 66.4 years) completed a self-administered questionnaire including items for sex, weight, height, and dominant hand. Upper extremity dysfunction was investigated using Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand of the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Hand. The sleep disturbance severity was evaluated using a Japanese version of the Athens Insomnia Scale. Quality of life was assessed using the EuroQol-5-dimension-3-level, Japanese version. We measured the bilateral hand grip as an indicator of hand muscle function. Statistical tests were applied to clarify the association between upper extremity dysfunction and screening results for sleep disturbance.

Of 159 participants, 45 (28.3%) had sleep disturbance as assessed using Japanese version of the Athens Insomnia Scale (11 men and 34 women; mean age of 68.1 years). Japanese version of the Athens Insomnia Scale scores correlated with the EuroQol index; EuroQol visual analog scale; and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores. The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score and dominant grip strength of the participants with sleep disturbance were significantly higher than those of the no sleep disturbance group. The EuroQol index score and visual analog scale of those reporting a sleep disturbance were significantly lower than those of the no sleep disturbance group.

Self-administered upper extremity health condition as assessed using Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand correlated with sleep disturbance. Our results suggest a link between upper extremity conditions and sleep disturbance.