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The effect of a long-term exercise programme on the rheumatoid hand
S W Brighton1, J E Lubbe, C A van der Merwe
1Department of Rheumatology, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
British Journal of Rheumatology
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Simple hand exercises significantly improved grip strength in rheumatoid arthritis patients over 48 months. This beneficial exercise program enhanced hand function for those with rheumatoid arthritis.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Physical Therapy
- Hand Function Studies
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- RA commonly affects the hands, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced grip strength.
- Conservative treatments for RA aim to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy of a simple hand exercise program.
- To assess the impact of daily exercises on grip and pincer grip strength in patients with active RA.
- To compare outcomes between an exercise intervention group and a control group.
Main Methods:
- A 48-month randomized controlled trial involving 44 female patients with sero-positive active RA.
- The test group (n=22) performed a daily regimen of six specific hand exercises.
- The control group (n=22) did not perform any prescribed exercises.
Main Results:
- The test group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in grip strength (P < 0.0001).
- Pincer grip strength also showed statistically significant improvement in the test group (P < 0.0005).
- The control group experienced a significant deterioration in grip strength over the 48-month period (P < 0.0000).
Conclusions:
- A simple, daily hand exercise program is beneficial for managing the rheumatoid hand.
- The exercises led to significant gains in grip and pincer grip strength.
- This intervention offers a practical approach to improving hand function in RA patients.