Full Text (PDF)
Abstract
Objective: Hospitalization process causes a variety of physical problems. The decrease of hand use in daily life during hospitalization brings hand dysfunction to mind in inpatients. The aim of this study is to compare the hand functions of hospitalized patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) to outpatients in detail.
Methods: Grip and pinch strengths of both hospitalized patients in rheumatology service and outpatients on the routine control day were measured. In addition, 9-Hole Peg Test was performed and the disability level was determined by the Turkish version of Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHOQ).
Results: While grip strength and MHOQ scores were similar (p>0.05) in both groups, all three pinch strengths (lateral, bipod, tripod) and 9HPT scores were lower (p<0.05) in hospitalized patients.
Conclusion: Consequently, besides disease activity, hospitalization process also impairs fine hand functions in rheumatological patients. Evaluation of fine hand functions and appropriate rehabilitative interventions may prevent further disability in hospitalized patients.
License
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Article Type: Research Article
J Clin Exp Invest, Volume 6, Issue 3, September 2015, 228-232
https://doi.org/10.5799/ahinjs.01.2015.03.0524
Publication date: 25 Oct 2015
Article Views: 2470
Article Downloads: 1096
Open Access References How to cite this article