The Comparison of Hand Grip and Pinch Strength between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Control Groups

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the usefulness of hand grip and pinch strength in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. METHOD: The experimental subjects were divided into 3 groups (Group 1 100 persons; control, Group 2 100 persons; RA without hand deformity, Group 3 100 persons; RA with hand deformity). They were assessed with using the Modified Barthel Index (MBI), evaluating the activity of daily living (ADL). A JAMAR Hand Dynamometer(R), JAMAR Hydraulic Pinch Gauge(R) (Sammons Preston Rolyan, Ilinois, USA) were used to measure grip and pinch strength. Further assessments included joint deformity counts, and visual analogue scales. RESULTS: The grip and pinch strength significantly decreased in all groups. The total MBI with other groups significantly decreased in RA patients with hand deformity (group 3). The MBI correlated well with visual analogue scales in group 2 and with joint deformity counts in group 3. CONCLUSION: Hand grip and pinch strength tests would be a useful tool for the evaluation of hand function in rheumatoid arthritis patients.