Jebsen Hand Function Test in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the usefulness of Jebsen hand function test in rheumatoid arthritis patients. METHOD: The experimental subjects were divided into 3 groups (Group 1 17 persons; control, Group 2 21 persons; RA without hand deformity, Group 3 16 persons; RA with hand deformity). They were assessed by Jebsen hand function test. Further included assessments were grip and pinch strength, joint deformity counts, and visual analogue scales. RESULTS: Jebsen hand function test scores were significantly decreased in rheumatoid arthritis patients compared with control. Jebsen hand function test scores were well correlated with visual analogue scales in group 2 and correlated with joint deformity counts in group 3. CONCLUSIONS: Jebsen hand function test would be useful tool for the evaluation of hand function in the rheumatoid arthritis patients with hand deformity.