Assessing Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Programs for Patients with Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Role of Device-Assisted Techniques Used to Measure Functional Status
Study Objective: To assess the effectiveness of four rehabilitation programs for patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. This was done by applying device-assisted techniques used to measure subjects' functional status. Study Design: This was an open-label, prospective, controlled study. Materials and Methods: The study included 135 patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. They were divided into four experimental groups, which were set to participate in different rehabilitation programs, and one control group. Dynamometry and an EN-TreeM analysis of movements were used to measure locomotion parameters (handgrip strength and power of motion in knees and ankles) at baseline, at week 2, and at months 3 and 6. Study Results: The most significant improvement in locomotion provided by the musculoskeletal system was observed in patients who had undergone a 6-month combination rehabilitation program that included local air cryotherapy, joint exercises, occupational therapy, wearing orthotics, and educational activities. Conclusion: Dynamometry and an EN-TreeM analysis of movements help objectively assess the movement potential of different joint groups. At early stages of rheumatoid arthritis, the best functional outcomes can be achieved using combination rehabilitation programs that include all components of multidisciplinary medical care.