Functioning in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Objective: There is increasing evidence and awareness that rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, such as joint pain and activity limitations, are strongly influenced by psychosocial variables. We hypothesized that depression is significantly associated with functional capabilities in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Method: We examined in a cross-sectional, retrospective data-based study the role of depression, pain severity, and self-efficacy in daily functioning in forty-five adult male veterans aged 55 and older who were patients with RA. Results: The overall RA disablement model of depression, pain severity, and self-efficacy accounted for 67% of predicted variance in disability. All independent variables were significantly associated with functional impairment in RA patients. Conclusions: Psychosocial factors, such as depression and self-efficacy, contribute greatly to disability in RA patients. Clinicians should carefully assess psychiatric and non-disease factors during medical evaluation in patients with RA.