The aim of this study was to verify the capacity of maximum handgrip strength (HGSmax) in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its relationship with disease activity. Nine women with RA and ten healthy women were selected. The demographics data were recorded of both groups, and clinical characteristics of women with RA. The level of disease activity was evaluated by the protocol Disease Activity Score (DAS-28) using C-Reactive Protein (CRP). To measure the HGSmax was used an extensometer dynamometer. The results showed a statistically significant difference of HGSmax between the participants (Arthritis and Control: 129.41±52.10 e 192.46±38.98 N). In relation to dominance, women with RA showed no significant difference in HGSmax. The results of HGSmax for the dominant hand showed a strong linear relationship with the CRP (r=0.751). It also noted that was a moderate non-linear relation of HGSmax for the dominant hand and non-dominant with the number of tender and swollen joints. Thus, it is clear that women with RA have reduced ability to produce HGSmax independent of dominance, in addition, this study demonstrated the direct relationship that exists between HGSmax and the level of disease activity.
Arthritis; Rheumatoid; Muscle Strength Dynamometer; C-Reactive Protein
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