Department of Physiology, Grant Medical College and Sir J. J. Hospital, Mumbai – 400 008
*Corresponding author: E-Mail: rangrao.bhise@gmail.com
Online published on 13 February, 2013.
To measure the blood pressure and pulse rate responses in rheumatoid arthritis patients to the sustained isometric exercise by hand grip dynamometry and comparing the results with control group.
Patients: -35 Rheumatoid Arthritis patients diagnosed on the basis of Modified American Rheumatology Criteria 1987 were selected for this study. Controls: -35 healthy age and sex matched control. Age group 20 to 70 years, including both male and female. Instrument used: Hand Grip Dynamometer, Electronic Blood Pressure and pulse rate monitor, Stop watch etc.
1. The subject pressed the hand grip dynamometer for 3 minute at 30% of the maximal voluntary effort and blood pressure & pulse rate were recorded before and after the test. 2. Data obtained from the patients is compared to the control group.
For cases rise in DBP i.e. >15 mm Hg were significantly lower (34.3%) as compared to controls (50%). For cases rise in DBP i.e. < 15 mm Hg were significantly higher (15.7%) as compared to controls (0%)., therefore, it suggests there was autonomic dysfunction in 15.7% of RA patients.
This study suggests there was autonomic dysfunction in 15.7% of Rheumatoid arthritis Patients.
Rheumatoid Arthritis, hand grip dynamometer, autonomic response, Maximum voluntary contraction
