Joint Protection Principles
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Functional ability is reduced in 60% of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) within the first five years from diagnosis, with 16% developing more
severe functional disability and 44% following a remittingurelapsing course.[1] Within two years 50% experience difficulties in household tasks.[2] Women with RA can have on average only 40% of normal power and pinch grip within six months of diagnosis, even with early commencement of disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs).[3] This suggests therapy to help maintain hand function and independence should be provided early for those developing functional limitations.
- ↑ Young A, Dixey J, Cox Net al. How does functional ability in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA)affect patients and their lives? Results of 5 years of follow-up in 732 patients from the Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Study (ERAS)Rheumatology 2000;39: 603�/11.
- ↑ Eberhardt KB, Rydgren LC, Petersson H, Wollheim FA. Early rheumatoid arthritis�/ onset, course and outcomes after two years.Rheumatol Int 1990;10: 135�/42.
- ↑ Hammond A, Kidao R, Young A. Hand impairment and function in early rheumatoid arthritis.Arthritis Rheum2000;43(9 suppl):S285.
