Sustained efficacy of a concise self-management programme for hands in systemic sclerosis: a longitudinal...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Therapeutics

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis (SSc) often leads to hand complications, impacting quality of life.
• Effective, accessible interventions for hand issues in SSc are crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a self-management program focused on hand exercises for patients with SSc.
• To assess improvements in pain, function, and strength over 24 weeks.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal case-control observational study design was employed.
• Patients with SSc were assigned to an intervention group (IG) receiving the program or a control group (CG).
• Hand pain, function, range of motion, and grip/pinch strength were measured.

Main Results:

• The intervention group (IG) showed significant improvements in all measured hand parameters (P ≤ 0.05, large effect size).
• The control group (CG) experienced no improvement or worsening of hand grip strength and finger motion.
• Baseline differences were noted in Scleroderma HAQ and pinch strength between groups.

Conclusions:

• A self-management program incorporating hand exercises is effective in reducing pain and enhancing hand function, strength, and range of motion in SSc patients.
• This program represents a simple, valuable intervention, particularly in settings lacking regular rehabilitation services.