Effect of microwave and magnetotherapy on the change of the functional status of rheumatoid arthritis patients

Abstract

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic progressive systemic autoimmune disease that mainly affects the synovial lining of joints , cartilage , and later the tissues surrounding the joints . Thermal procedures and magnetotherapy reduce pain , increase the range of motion , shorten morning joint stiffness , and improve the locomotor function and the quality of life. Aim to evaluate the effect of microwave and magnetotherapy on the change of functional status of rheumatoid arthritis patients. Materials & methods. 50 rheumatoid arthritis patients who participated in the study were randomly assigned to three groups: Group 1 undertook microwave therapy (oligothermic dose, 50 W power, durations 20 min.), Group 2 low frequency pulse magnetotherapy (20 Hz frequency, 50 % intensity, duration 20 min.), and Group 3 had both procedures applied for 5 consecutive days. The functional status was assessed using the Functional Movement Test Keitel Index, and the pain was assessed by a Pain Scale before and after treatment. Results. 37 women (74%) and 13 men (26%) participated in the study . The group of affected wrists and hands was the dominant one , accounting for 48% of all cases (p < 0.05). While applying the microwave therapy , the average Keitel index increased from 28.67 ±2.73 to 35.33 ±5.89, and pain decreased from 4.62 ±2.28 to 1,69 1,69±1,20, especially in the male group (p < 0.05). In the case of magnetotherapy , the average Keitel index increased from 30.64 ±7.90 to 34.57 ±6.89, and pain decreased from 4.68 ±1.64 to 2.50 ±1.34. In the combined microwave and magnetotherapy treatment , the average Keitel index increased from 25.60 ±6.02 to 36.60 ±4.34, and pain decreased from 4.50 ±1.45 to 1.67 ±1.50 (p <...[...].