This study aims to investigate the correlation between hand grip strength and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using a digital dynamometer. The project focuses on quantifying grip strength as a potential objective biomarker for disease progression and treatment response in RA.
The scope of the study includes:
- Recruitment of RA patients and non-RA controls.
- Standardized measurement of hand grip strength using a digital dynamometer.
- Data collection on RA disease activity scores, including CDAI, 28-joint count, clinical symptoms, and patient-reported outcomes.
- Statistical analysis to determine the relationship between grip strength and RA activity.
Student/Trainee Roles and Responsibilities:
- Assisting with patient recruitment and obtaining informed consent.
- Administering hand grip strength tests following standardized protocols.
- Recording data.
- Contributing to data analysis and interpretation of results.
- Participating in research meetings and contributing to the preparation of abstracts, posters, and manuscripts for potential publication.
This role provides an opportunity for the student/trainee to develop hands-on clinical research skills, gain experience with patient interaction, and deepen their understanding of the relationship between functional biomarkers and chronic disease activity.