Comparison of Joint Mobilization and Energy Conservation Technique in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients in Hand Joints

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune inflammatory condition that affects the hand, wrist,andknee joints.Joint mobilization is frequently used in RA patients. This study was to find the effectiveness of Jointmobilization and Energy conservation technique using range of motion measurement and Sollerman handfunction test in hand joints.Purpose: This study is to find the effect of Joint mobilization and Energy conservation technique which is a noninvasiveprocedure on Rheumatoid arthritis patients.Materials and Methods: A group of 60 Rheumatoid arthritis patients were selected according to inclusion andexclusion criteria from Saveetha medical college and hospital and SAGA Rehabilitation centre.they were dividedinto Joint mobilization group: (n=30) the subjects were treated with Joint mobilization and taught exercises to gainstrength and mobility for 3 days a week for 4 weeks for 15-30 minutes and Energy conservation group: (n=30) thesubjects are taught pacing the activities, prescribing assistive devices, foam-covered handles, wide grip handlesusing large joints to lift objects, teaching Proper body mechanics and Ergonomic considerations to be followed for4 weeks.Study period: November 2022 to April 2023.Result: A statistically significant difference between Joint Mobilization and Energy conservation technique groupsreveals that Joint mobilization has significant effects in lowering stiffness and pain and improving ROM of handjoints.Conclusion: Joint mobilization worked more effectively than energy conservation techniques in RA patients.