• J H Geertzen, P U Dijkstra, E L van Sonderen, J W Groothoff, H J ten Duis, and W H Eisma.
• Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands.
• Clin Rehabil. 1998 Oct 1; 12 (5): 402-12.

ObjectiveTo determine the relationship between impairments, disability and handicap in reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) patients.DesignA long-term follow-up study of upper extremity RSD patients.SettingA university hospital.SubjectsSixty-five patients, 3-9 years (mean interval 5.5 years) after RSD of the upper extremity (mean age 50.2 years).Main Outcome MeasuresImpairments: range of motion, moving two point discrimination, muscle strength of the hand and pain were measured. Disability was assessed with the Groningen Activity Restriction Scale (GARS) and handicap was assessed with three subscales (social functioning, role limitations due to physical problems and role limitations due to emotional problems) of the RAND-36.ResultsAfter RSD of the upper extremity, 62% of the patients are limited in activities of daily living (ADL) and/or instrumental ADL (IADL). Pain and restrictions in forward flexion of the shoulder, thumb opposition and grip strength are the most important impairments limiting ADL and IADL. Patients with limitations in ADL and IADL are significantly more handicapped than patients without limitations. Pain is the most important factor contributing to handicap.ConclusionThe relationship between impairments and disability and between disability and handicap in RSD patients is weak to moderate. Pain is the most important factor leading to disability and handicap.

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