Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Follow-Up Assessment of Physical Functioning Abilities After Treatment in a Comprehensive Environmental Control Unit (open access)

Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Follow-Up Assessment of Physical Functioning Abilities After Treatment in a Comprehensive Environmental Control Unit

Two instruments were developed and administered to fifteen female and three male rheumatoid arthritics (mean age 44) previously hospitalized for allergy treatment by ecological methods. The Physical Functioning Ability Scale assessed functional capacity according to common daily activities, and the Rehabilitation Questionnaire surveyed adjustment problems subjects encountered after hospital discharge. ANOVA was performed on the functionality scale comparing dimensions of dependence, pain, and difficulty with categorical activities of mobility, work, and personal care, Significant F values (p(.05) were obtained for interaction and dimensions, but not for categories. Functional independence from human/mechanical assistance was particularly noted. Recommendation for future research concerns replicating this study using a control group of rheumatoid arthritics treated by traditional medical approaches.
Date: March 1981
Creator: Cockburn, Orbie
System: The UNT Digital Library