Relationship of Strength with Pain and Function of Hand in Female Patients with Chronic Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systematic inflammatory disease which is characterised by pain and functional loss in an individual with bilateral involvement of hands, resulting in loss of joint integrity and bony deformities. Grip strength decreases the functional ability and hamper the Activity of daily livings (ADLs). The objective of present study was to assess the relationship between grip strength with key strength, pain and function of rheumatoid hand.ATotal of 103 female Rheumatoid arthritis patients ofage group 20 to 60 years as per inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled for this study. Grip strength was measured by Hand dynamometer and key strength was measured by digital pinch meter, pain score of severity and interference were quantified by Brief Pain Inventory(BPI) scale, hand function score was calculated by short form score for assessment and quantification of chronic rheumatoid affection of hand (SF-SACRAH).There was a significant positive correlation between right hand Grip strength with key strength of right hand (r= .559, p<0.01) and hand function score (r= -.230, p<0.05). The positive correlation of left-hand grip strength with left hand key strength (r= .616, p<0.01) and pain severity score (r= -.198=, p<0.05) was also found.The study concludes a positive correlation between grip strength of right hand with key strength and function of right hand in chronic rheumatoid arthritis patients whereas severity of pain shows positive correlation with left hand grip strength. Rheumatoid patients need a better rehab management or their functional status.