Changes in occupational roles in women with chronic pain and Rheumatoid Arthritis compared to healthy women

Abstract

The objective of this study was to understand the occupational roles of women with chronic pain caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and to compare these performance standards with those of healthy subjects. It is a cross-sectional, exploratory and comparative study. Participants were divided into 2 groups. For the RA group, two validated questionnaires were applied: Visual Analog Scale and the Occupational Roles List, clinical and demographic data. In the control group, the personal information sheet and the Occupational Role List were applied. The control group was matched in age and sociodemographic level. A total of 164 women participated in the study, of which 82 were women with chronic pain and rheumatoid arthritis, with a mean age of 55.9 ± 11.2 years, and 82 healthy and matched women. In the RA group (GAR), 48% of the participants in the work activities were lost, but the roles of caregiver (68%), household chores (89%), friend (74%), family member (93%), and religious (60%), remained in the process of becoming ill. In the control group (CG), the maintenance of most occupational roles is observed. In the comparison between both groups, a statistically significant difference was found in student, worker, volunteer, friend and passer/amateur roles. The occupational roles of women with chronic pain caused by RA are modified by illness and pain. When compared to healthy women, it is observed that the student, worker, volunteer and hobby/amateur roles are no longer performed due to illness. This influence is not dependent on pain intensity since no difference was found between participants with RA and levels of severity other than pain.