Validity and responsiveness of the Michigan Hand Questionnaire in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a multicenter, international study

Reported Outcomes and Outcome Measures in Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

Purpose: There is a lack of scientific consensus on the best arthroplasty implant option for proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) arthritis, due to diversity in outcome reporting and measurement methods. The development of a standardized core outcome set (COS) and standard outcome measures could mitigate this issue. This study catalogs the reported outcomes and outcome measures found in PIPJ arthroplasty studies, which can be used in the first step of developing a COS. Methods: A database search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science (January 1, 2010, to March 10, 2021) was performed to retrieve studies that reported outcomes of the 3 most common primary PIPJ arthroplasty implants: silicone, pyrocarbon, and metal-polyethylene. The primary objectives of this study include reported outcomes and outcome measures. Secondary objectives include clinimetric properties of outcome measures, study design, and implant types. Results: Fifty articles met inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, 41 (82%) were case series, 8 (16%) were cohort studies, and 1 (2%) was a randomized control trial. Thirty-three unique outcomes were identified. Fifteen (46%) outcomes were clinician-reported and 26 (79%) were patient-reported. Eighteen unique outcome measures were identified. Of the outcome measures, 15 (83%) were patient-reported, 1 (6%) was clinician-reported, and 2 (11%) were reported by both patients and clinicians. Conclusions: Substantial heterogeneity was found in reported outcomes and outcome measures across studies evaluating PIPJ arthroplasty, impeding knowledge translation. The development of a COS for PIPJ arthroplasty is necessary to help compare and pool data across studies, and advance scientific knowledge.

Comparison of Distal Radius Fracture Outcomes in Older Adults Stratified by Chronologic vs Physiologic Age Managed With Casting vs Surgery

IMPORTANCE

Casting is recommended for adults older than 65 years with distal radius fractures (DRFs) because similar long-term outcomes are achieved regardless of treatment. However, physiologically younger adults could benefit from operative DRF management despite advanced chronologic age.

OBJECTIVE

To examine how chronologic age compares with measures of physiologic age in DRF treatment recovery.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective secondary analysis of the Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial (WRIST) was performed from May 1 to August 31, 2022. WRIST was a 24-center randomized clinical trial that enrolled participants older than 60 years with unstable DRFs from April 1, 2012, to December 31, 2016.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants selected casting or surgery. Patients who selected surgery were randomly assigned to volar lock plating, percutaneous pinning, or external fixation. Participants were stratified by chronologic age, number of comorbidities, and activity status.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) score assessed at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. Partial correlation (PC) analysis adjusted for confounding.

RESULTS

The final cohort consisted of 293 participants (mean [SD] age, 71.1 [8.89] years; 255 [87%] female; 247 [85%] White), with 109 receiving casting and 184 receiving surgery. Increased chronologic age was associated with increased MHQ scores in the surgery group at all time points but decreased MHQ scores in the casting group at 12 months (mean [SD] score, -0.46 [0.21]; P = .03). High activity was associated with improved MHQ scores in the surgical cohort at 6 weeks (mean [SD] score, 12.21 [5.18]; PC = 0.27; P = .02) and 12 months (mean [SD] score, 13.25 [5.77]; PC = 0.17; P = .02). Comorbidities were associated with decreased MHQ scores at all time points in the casting group. Clinically significant differences in MHQ scores were associated with low physical activity, 4 or more comorbidities, or increased age by 15 years.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this retrospective secondary analysis of WRIST, chronologic age was not associated with functional demand. These findings suggest that physicians should counsel active older adults with few comorbidities on earlier return to daily activities after surgery compared with casting.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01589692.

A systematic review of the measurement properties of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ)

This systematic review of the literature aimed to identify studies examining the measurement properties of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) in various international populations and investigate its use in various diagnoses and health conditions. The search was conducted in MEDLINE (via PubMed), SCOPUS, CINAHL and Web of Science, with no restrictions on publication date, country or patient age. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the COnsensus-based Standards to select the health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist. 312 publications were identified and screened; 55 studies met the inclusion criteria and were critically reviewed. These publications comprised 16 languages and 11 pathologies and mainly investigated the internal consistency, construct validity and reliability of the MHQ. In general, all the measurement properties of the instrument showed good scores. The present review shows that the MHQ is a valid patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) and can be properly used in different clinical and rehabilitative contexts. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2A.

Lower hand grip in rheumatoid arthritis patients is associated with low finite element analysis using high resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography scan of the 2nd metacarpophalangeal joint

AIM

To evaluate hand function by hand grip test in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, and its association with bone erosions and the estimated bone strength (finite element - FE analysis) through the analysis of the 2nd metacarpal head of the dominant hand using high resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT).

METHOD

Eighty-two female RA patients between 18-50 years old were selected. Demographic data, Health Questionnaire Assessment Disability Index (HAQ), Disease Activity Score of 28 joints (DAS)-28, simplified disease activity index (SDAI) and the hand grip test were set. The HR-pQCT scans of 2nd metacarpophalangeal joints of the dominant hand of all patients were performed according to SPECTRA group protocols. The images were used to assess bone erosions and FE analysis. The hand grip test was categorized in 2 groups and separately compared (< 18 vs ≥18 kgf). A logistic regression was performed using hand grip test <18 kgf as a dependent variable.

RESULTS

A significant difference was found between the 2 groups regarding HAQ, inflammatory markers (erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein), DAS-28, SDAI, total volume of erosion and bone strength parameter (FE analysis - Failure Load [F.Load]). The logistic regression analysis showed that the risk factors associated with hand grip test <18 kgf were higher SDAI (odds ratio [OR] 0.912; 95% CI 0.837-0.993) and lower values of bone strength parameter (F.Load) (OR 1.007; 95% CI 1.002-1.012).

CONCLUSION

Lower values of hand grip test were associated with higher disease activity score-SDAI and lower bone strength of 2nd metacarpal bone head of the dominant hand evaluated here through a FE analysis using HR-pQCT scan.

Rasch analysis of the brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire in patients with thumb osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

The brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire (brief MHQ) is a 12-item self-reported measure of hand function for patients with hand disorders which has been validated using Classical Test Theory. Rasch analysis can provide more detailed psychometric information. The purpose of this Rasch analysis is to assess the psychometric properties of the brief MHQ for patients with thumb osteoarthritis, and to make recommendations for improvements to the questionnaire if needed.  METHODS: The Michigan Hand Questionnaire and demographic data were collected from 923 thumb osteoarthritis patients treated in specialized clinics for hand surgery and therapy in the Netherlands. Rasch analysis was performed on the 12 items of the brief MHQ using RUMM 2030 to assess the fit of the brief MHQ to the Rasch model. To determine fit, analysis of fit summary statistics, individual person fit and individual item fit were assessed. Threshold distributions were assessed to identify if any items required rescoring. The Person Separation Index was calculated to measure reliability of the questionnaire. Differential item functioning was assessed to identify item bias, and Principal Component Analysis was performed to identify unidimensionality and local dependence.

RESULTS

The brief MHQ showed misfit (χ² = 1312.5, p < 0.0001) with 6 items having disordered thresholds and 9 items requiring rescoring. After deleting 3 of the rescored items due to significant item fit residuals, the brief MHQ had an acceptable reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.79). Misfit to the model (χ² = 49.6, p = 0.0001), multidimensionality (10.2% of t-tests were significant), and item bias from non-uniform differential item functioning for 7 items across many person variables were still found.

CONCLUSION

Although no satisfactory solutions were found to correct the misfit to the Rasch model, it is recommended that the response options of the brief MHQ be rescored, and that items 6, 9 and 10 be removed. The lack of unidimensionality indicates that the items do not represent the singular construct of hand disability and that totalling the scores of the brief MHQ does not provide a valid measure of hand disability for people with thumb osteoarthritis. The 37-item Michigan Hand Questionnaire may provide a better assessment of hand disability for patients with thumb osteoarthritis.

An Exercise and Educational and Self-management Program Delivered With a Smartphone App (CareHand) in Adults With Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Hands: Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a prevalent autoimmune disease that usually involves problems of the hand or wrist. Current evidence recommends a multimodal therapy including exercise, self-management, and educational strategies. To date, the efficacy of this approach, as delivered using a smartphone app, has been scarcely investigated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the short- and medium-term efficacy of a digital app (CareHand) that includes a tailored home exercise program, together with educational and self-management recommendations, compared with usual care, for people with RA of the hands.

METHODS

A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted between March 2020 and February 2021, including 36 participants with RA of the hands (women: 22/36, 61%) from 2 community health care centers. Participants were allocated to use the CareHand app, consisting of tailored exercise programs, and self-management and monitoring tools or to a control group that received a written home exercise routine and recommendations, as per the usual protocol provided at primary care settings. Both interventions lasted for 3 months (4 times a week). The primary outcome was hand function, assessed using the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ). Secondary measures included pain and stiffness intensity (visual analog scale), grip strength (dynamometer), pinch strength (pinch gauge), and upper limb function (shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire). All measures were collected at baseline and at a 3-month follow-up. Furthermore, the MHQ and self-reported stiffness were assessed 6 months after baseline, whereas pain intensity and scores on the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire were collected at the 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-ups.

RESULTS

In total, 30 individuals, corresponding to 58 hands (CareHand group: 26/58, 45%; control group: 32/58, 55%), were included in the analysis; 53% (19/36) of the participants received disease-modifying antirheumatic drug treatment. The ANOVA demonstrated a significant time×group effect for the total score of the MHQ (F_1.62,85.67=9.163; P<.001; η²=0.15) and for several of its subscales: overall hand function, work performance, pain, and satisfaction (all P<.05), with mean differences between groups for the total score of 16.86 points (95% CI 8.70-25.03) at 3 months and 17.21 points (95% CI 4.78-29.63) at 6 months. No time×group interaction was observed for the secondary measures (all P>.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Adults with RA of the hands who used the CareHand app reported better results in the short and medium term for overall hand function, work performance, pain, and satisfaction, compared with usual care. The findings of this study suggest that the CareHand app is a promising tool for delivering exercise therapy and self-management recommendations to this population. Results must be interpreted with caution because of the lack of efficacy of the secondary outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04263974; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04263974.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

RR2-10.1186/s13063-020-04713-4.

Rasch Analysis of the Michigan Hand Questionnaire

OBJECTIVES

The Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) is a commonly used evaluation for hand problems, but previous work reports conflicting evidence regarding the subscale structures. Rasch analysis uses probabilistic modeling of items and responses: if scale items can be fit to the Rasch model, it provides evidence of construct validity and interval-level measurement for precise statistical estimates. We conducted Rasch analysis on the MHQ to evaluate model fit, unidimensionality of the subscales, bias across person factors, and conversion to interval metrics.

METHODS

We conducted a secondary Rasch analysis of MHQ data from 924 persons with thumb basal joint osteoarthritis using the RUMM2030 software. Modeling was based on responses for the most affected hand and person factors including age, sex, type of work, whether the dominant side was the most affected, and surgical status. The analysis plan followed the published recommendations for examinations of person and item fit, with iterative adjustments as required.

RESULTS

A total of 11 of the 37 items required rescoring to create orderly progression of scoring thresholds. Only the overall hand function and pain subscales could be fit to the Rasch model, demonstrating unidimensionality and good reliability of fit estimates. Dividing the activities of daily living subscale into unilateral and bilateral activities also allowed unilateral activities to fit the model. Persistent misfitting in other subscales suggested local dependency and response bias across multiple person factors.

CONCLUSIONS

This Rasch analysis of the MHQ raises concerns regarding the validity and fundamental measurement properties of this widely used outcome evaluation when used as a summary score.

Concurrent validity and precision of the thumb disability examination (TDX) in first carpometacarpal osteoarthritis

STUDY DESIGN

A descriptive psychometric study of precision and concurrent validity of the Thumb Disability Examination (TDX).

INTRODUCTION

Thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis (CMC OA) is a painful joint condition impacting the functionality of the hand. Therapists use patient-reported outcome measures to evaluate change in disability and symptomology in response to interventions. The TDX is the only condition-specific outcome measure for persons with thumb CMC OA. Its responsiveness, test-retest reliability and concurrent validity with the DASH are published, yet it's precision and concurrent validity with a hand-region-specific tool has not yet been established.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

We aimed to determine the precision and concurrent validity of the TDX with a region-specific outcome measure in people with thumb CMC OA.

METHODS

Sixteen individuals with a medical diagnosis of CMC OA or a positive pressure-shear test completed the TDX across two visits and the Brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire (bMHQ) at the initial visit. The second visit was 7 to 21 days after the first. Self-administration of the TDX and bMHQ were observed by a licensed occupational therapist.

RESULTS

Across total and subscale scores of the TDX, standard error of measurement (SEM) values are used to indicate the precision of tool and demonstrate how confident a user can be that change in score exceeds the error inherent to the tool. Minimal detectable change percentage (MDC%) values for the TDX are acceptable (<30%). The TDX demonstrated high concurrent validity with the bMHQ (r_s = -0.733; P = .001).

DISCUSSION

Precision of the TDX is acceptable and the concurrent validity of the TDX with a commonly used region-specific scale is high. The study was limited by a small, demographically homogeneous sample due to difficulty in recruitment.

CONCLUSIONS

The TDX is a precise and valid outcome measure for individuals having a clinical diagnosis or indications of having thumb CMC OA.

Assessment of responsiveness of four hand-related scales in stroke patients

Self-reporting scales are commonly utilized in determining appropriate treatment strategies and follow-up in hand-related disorders. Responsiveness is described as the ability of a scale to detect clinically significant changes. We aimed to evaluate responsiveness of Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), Duruöz Hand Index (DHI), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and ABILHAND questionnaire in stroke patients. Fifty-one stroke patients were assessed in this descriptive study. Participants received conventional stroke rehabilitation program consisting of 30 sessions. Brunnstrom stages of the stroke patients were recorded before and after treatment. MHQ, DHI, DASH, ABILHAND questionnaire and patient satisfaction scores were filled in by participants before and after the conventional rehabilitation program. Significant improvements were found in MHQ, DHI, DASH, ABILHAND, patient satisfaction scores and Brunnstrom motor recovery stages after the rehabilitation program (p < 0.001). Responsiveness values of the scales were calculated as MHQ (effect size (ES) = - 0.74; standardized response mean (SRM) = - 1.25), DHI (ES = 0.64; SRM = 1.22), DASH (ES = 0.71; SRM = 1.01), and ABILHAND (ES = - 0.55; SRM = - 1.22). Our study revealed that MHQ, DHI, DASH and ABILHAND are responsive scales in detecting treatment-related changes in stroke patients. MHQ, DHI, DASH and ABILHAND can be used in the evaluation of treatment responses in stroke patients.

Using Rasch Analysis to Validate the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire from the Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial

BACKGROUND

The Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire is a patient-reported outcome measure that has been validated in many upper extremity disorders using classic test theory. Rasch measurement analysis is a rigorous method of questionnaire validation that offers several advantages over classic test theory and was used to assess the psychometric properties of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire. This study used Rasch analysis to evaluate the questionnaire for distal radius fractures in older adults. The incidence and costs of distal radius fractures are rising, and reliable assessment tools are needed to measure outcomes in this growing concern.

METHODS

Rasch analysis was performed using 6-month assessment data from the Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial. Each domain in the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire was independently analyzed for threshold ordering, person-item targeting, item fit, differential-item functioning, response dependency, unidimensionality, and internal consistency.

RESULTS

After collapsing disordered thresholds and removing any misfitting items from the model, five domains (Function, Activities of Daily Living, Work, Pain, and Satisfaction) demonstrated excellent fit to the Rasch model. The Aesthetics domain demonstrated high reliability and internal consistency but had poor fit to the Rasch model.

CONCLUSIONS

Rasch analysis further supports the reliability and validity of using the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire to assess hand outcomes in older adults following treatment for distal radius fractures. Results from this study suggest that questionnaire scores should be interpreted in a condition-specific manner, with more emphasis placed on interpreting individual domain scores, rather than the summary Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire score.

Assessment of construct validity of the Finnish versions of the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Instrument and the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION

There is a lack of information on the measurement properties of patient-reported upper extremity instruments and their association to health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to examine and compare the measurement properties and construct validity of the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Instrument and the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) using a heterogeneous sample of patients with hand and wrist problems.

METHODS

Two hundred fifty consecutive patients visiting a general orthopedic outpatient clinic due to various hand/wrist problems were invited to participate in the study. A total of 193 (77%) participants provided sufficient patient-reported outcome data and were included in the analysis. Participants completed the DASH, the MHQ, the EQ-5D-3L, and pain on a visual analog scale instruments. Grip and key pinch forces were measured. Scale targeting, relatedness of demographics, and construct validity of the DASH and the MHQ were assessed.

RESULTS

Both the DASH and the MHQ had good targeting, but the DASH had wider coverage. The convergence between the DASH and the MHQ was high. The DASH was more closely related to HRQoL than the MHQ in terms of EQ-5D scores.

DISCUSSION

The DASH instrument appeared to measure hand function and disability from a perspective of HRQoL superior to the MHQ among patients with heterogeneous hand and wrist complaints.

CONCLUSION

The DASH performs well in measuring the HRQoL-related hand outcomes while the MHQ might be more specific for the affected hand.

Validating the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using Rasch analysis

INTRODUCTION

The Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) is a patient-reported outcome measure previously validated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using classical test theory. Rasch analysis is a more rigorous method of questionnaire validation that has not been used to test the psychometric properties of the MHQ in patients with RA. The objective of this study is to evaluate the validity and reliability of the MHQ for measuring outcomes in patients with RA with metacarpophalangeal joint deformities.

METHODS

We performed a Rasch analysis using baseline data from the Silicone Arthroplasty in Rheumatoid Arthritis (SARA) prospective cohort study. All domains were tested for threshold ordering, item fit, targeting, differential-item functioning, unidimensionality, and internal consistency.

RESULTS

The Function and Work domains showed excellent fit to the Rasch model. After making adjustments, the Pain, Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Satisfaction domains also fulfilled all Rasch model criteria. The Aesthetics domain met the majority of Rasch criteria, but could not be tested for unidimensionality.

CONCLUSIONS

After collapsing disordered thresholds and removing misfitting items, the MHQ demonstrated reliability and validity for assessing outcomes in patients with RA with metacarpophalangeal joint deformities. These results suggest that interpreting individual domain scores may provide more insight into a patient's condition rather than analyzing an overall MHQ summary score. However, more Rasch analyses are needed in other RA populations before making adjustments to the MHQ.

Using the Very Short Form of the Children's Behavior Questionnaire for Spanish-Speaking Populations in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Psychometric Analysis of Dichotomized Variables

While the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Very Short Form of the Children’s Behavior Questionnaire (CBQ-VSF) have been assessed in the US and Europe in samples composed of middle- and high-income parents with high levels of education, no studies have tested the instrument in low-income Spanish-speaking populations living in low- and middle-income countries. To fill this gap, our cross-sectional study assessed the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the CBQ-VSF version in a sample of 315 low-income and low-educated parents with preschool children living in the Caribbean Region of Colombia. While our findings revealed problems that were similar to those identified in previous assessments of the CBQ-VSF Spanish version, they also showed unique problems related to the sociodemographic characteristics of our sample, containing many individuals with a low income and low educational level. Most of the participants gave extreme responses, resulting in a notable kurtosis and skewness of the data. This article describes how we addressed these problems by dichotomizing the variables into binary categories. Additionally, it demonstrates that merely translating the CBQ-VSF is insufficient to be able to capture many of the underlying latent constructs associated with low-income and low-educated Latino/Hispanic populations.

Validation of the HAQ-UP-A (Health Assessment Questionnaire-Upper Limbs-Argentine Version) in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

HAQ is considered the gold standard for the evaluation of functional capacity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), even though it does not focus on any particular anatomical region. With the objective of assessing functional disability of the hand in elderly patients with osteoarthritis, Baron et al. used a modified version of the HAQ which was calculated as the mean value for the categories mostly involving the upper extremities and named it 'HAQ-UP'. This instrument has not been validated in patients with RA.

OBJECTIVE

To validate HAQ-UP-Argentine version in patients with RA.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study. Consecutive patients ≥18years with diagnosis of RA (ACR/EULAR 2010) were included. Socio-demographic data and RA characteristics were recorded. Questionnaires were administered: HAQ-A, HAQ-UP-A, FIHOA, Quick-DASH. The reproducibility of the questionnaire was assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients were included, 83% women, mean age 57.9years (SD 11.6). Cronbach's alpha test was 0.94. The intra-item correlation did not show redundant questions. HAQ-UP-A showed excellent correlation with HAQ-A (r=.93); FIHOA (r=.89) and Quick-DASH (r=.91). It also showed good correlation with DAS28-ESR (r=.68) and other composite disease activity indices as well as with other parameters of the disease. There was no correlation between HAQ-UP-A and disease duration. The reproducibility of the questionnaire was 0.82. Multiple linear regression adjusted for age and sex showed patient global VAS as the main determinant of HAQ-UP-A, followed by the presence of morning stiffness.

CONCLUSION

HAQ-UP-A was found to be reliable, valid and reproducible in patients with RA, representing a useful tool for the evaluation of the functional capacity of the upper limbs in these patients.

A Thai version of the Michigan hand questionnaire (Thai MHQ): an investigation of the psychometric properties

Background

The Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) is widely used to assess the hand/wrist conditions. We translated the original version into Thai (Thai MHQ) and evaluated its psychometric properties.

Methods

After receiving permission, the original MHQ was translated and cross-culturally adapted to Thai following standard guidelines. Two hundred and seventeen patients who had hand/wrist injuries or disorders were included in the study. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha. Test-retest reliability was analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Spearman’s rank correlation among the subscales of Thai MHQ, Thai DASH and Thai EQ-5D-5L and also confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to explore construct validity. The standardized response mean (SRM) was used to evaluate the responsiveness of the Thai MHQ.

Results

All subscales showed an acceptable Cronbach’s alpha (0.79–0.98). The test-retest reliability of each subscale was good (ICC = 0.83–0.95). In related dimensions, strong correlation was demonstrated between the Activities of daily living subscale of the Thai MHQ and the Common activities subscale in the Thai DASH (r = 0.77, P < 0.0001). For unrelated dimensions, a weak correlation was found between the Aesthetics subscale in the Thai MHQ and the Mobility subscale in the Thai EQ-5D-5L (r = − 0.13, P = 0.05). The Thai MHQ had strong correlation with Thai DASH (r = − 0.79, P < 0.0001) and Thai EQ-5D-5L (r = 0.63, P < 0.0001). CFA showed that the 6-factor model demonstrated an acceptable fit to the data. The SRM of the Thai MHQ was 0.78, indicating relatively large responsiveness. The MIC of Thai MHQ using distribution methods (SEM) was 5.2.

Conclusions

The Thai MHQ provides adequate internal consistency in all subscales as well as good construct validity and reliability for Thai patients and a relatively large standardized response mean at 2 months after treatment.

A mobile app using therapeutic exercise and education for self-management in patients with hand rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized controlled trial protocol

Background

Therapeutic exercise is a safe and cost-effective approach to alleviate hand rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-related symptoms. This study aims to investigate the differences in self-management between a smartphone app (CareHand), using hand exercises and educational advices, compared with a standard approach, on hand overall function, pain intensity, stiffness, and grip and pinch strength in patients with hand RA.

Methods

The project is a prospective, longitudinal, superiority, randomized controlled trial. Fifty-eight participants with hand RA will be randomly assigned into an experimental group (CareHand app) or a control group (conventional treatment). Control intervention involves a paper sheet with exercises and recommendations, and the experimental group includes the use of a smartphone app, which provides individualized exercise programs, self-management, and educational strategies to promote adherence to treatment. Both intervention protocols will last for 3 months. The principal investigator will conduct an educational session at baseline for all participants. Primary outcome comprises the overall hand function, assessed with the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ). Secondary outcomes include self-reported functional ability with the Quick DASH questionnaire, self-reported pain intensity and morning stiffness using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and hand grip and pinch strength (dynamometer). Outcome measures will be collected at baseline, and at 1 month and 3-month follow-up.

Discussion

This study will evaluate the effectiveness of a tele-rehabilitation tool, which uses exercise and self-management strategies, compared to a conventional approach, in patients with hand RA. The smartphone app will allow to monitor the patient’s status and to enhance patient-therapist communication. Some limitations may be related to the short follow-up duration and the lack of evaluation of psychosocial factors. Overall, this new way of promoting long-term effects in patients with a chronic rheumatic disease could be feasible and easy to implement in daily life clinical practice and current musculoskeletal care.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04263974. Registered on 7 March 2020. Date of last update 15 April 2020. Ethics committee code: PI_RH_2018.

Mitigating Biases in a Cohort Study: A Critical Examination of the Silicone Arthroplasty in Rheumatoid Arthritis Study

Research bias, or the systematic errors of a study, can arise before, during, or after a trial ends. These biases hinder the internal validity of the study, which is the accuracy of a study's conclusions regarding the effects of an intervention on a given group of subjects. With the growing use of evidence-based medicine, there is a demand for high-quality evidence from the research community. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials are considered the highest level of evidence, followed by individual randomized controlled trials. However, most surgical trials cannot be conducted as randomized controlled trials because of factors such as patient preferences and lack of equipoise among surgeons. Therefore, surgical trials may lack features that are held as important standards for high-quality evidence, such as randomization and blinding. To demonstrate the biases that surgical trials may encounter, the authors examined a prospective cohort study, the Silicone Arthroplasty in Rheumatoid Arthritis study. The authors focus on the challenges that arise during a surgical trial, including the design, implementation, and methods used to report the clinical evidence. By recognizing and addressing obstacles that exist in research, investigators will provide health care providers with high-quality evidence needed to make well-informed, evidence-based clinical decisions.

Linking commonly used hand therapy outcome measures to individual areas of the International Classification of Functioning: A systematic review

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

INTRODUCTION

Identifying outcome measures that correspond to the International Classification of Functioning (ICF) provides insight into selecting appropriate outcome tools in hand therapy practice.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study is to systematically review patient-reported outcome measures commonly used in hand therapy to determine the extent to which the content represents the biopsychosocial view of the ICF.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted. Studies that met inclusion criteria were identified, and outcome measures were extracted. The meaningful concept was determined for each item on the measure and linked to the most specific ICF category. Summary linkage calculations were completed.

RESULTS

Eleven patient-reported outcomes were identified from 43 included studies. Activity and participation had the highest content coverage followed by body functions. There was linking to personal factors and not defined-disability and mental health. Environmental factors were not represented in any of the included outcome measures. The core set representation of unique codes ranged from 8.55% to 18.80% (mean: 11.97%) for the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for Hand Conditions and from 30.43% to 47.83% (mean: 31.40%) for the Brief ICF Core Set for Hand Conditions. The percent representation of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for Hand Conditions for unique disability ranged from 21.62% to 43.24% (mean: 20.33%) and from 62.50% to 87.50% (mean: 72.22%) for the Brief ICF Core Set for Hand Conditions.

DISCUSSION

None of the included measures represent all categories of the ICF Core Sets for Hand Conditions.

CONCLUSION

Utilizing the most recent refinement rules for the linking process, this study provides comparisons of measures along with clarity of content coverage for the most commonly used tools in the practice of hand therapy.

Associations of Handgrip Strength with Prevalence of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Diabetes Mellitus in Older Adults

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between handgrip strength and prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes in older adults.

Methods

A total of 4,186 participants 65 years of age and older was included in the study, which utilized data from the fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Pearson’s chi-square tests were used to explore the relationship between frequency of participation in physical activity and handgrip strength. The relationships between handgrip strength and prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes were determined by logistic regression.

Results

Older adults with higher handgrip strength participated more frequently in walking (right hand, 3.71 day/wk; left hand, 3.80 day/wk), strength (right hand, 1.40 day/wk; left hand, 1.43 day/wk), and flexibility exercises (both hands, 2.08 day/wk) than those with lower handgrip strength (right hand, 2.83 day/wk and left hand, 2.81 day/wk for walking; right hand, 0.18 day/wk and left hand, 0.22 day/wk for strength; right hand, 1.17 day/wk and left hand, 1.24 day/wk for flexibility). Higher handgrip strength was associated with reduced prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis (right hand: odds ratio [OR], 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16–0.52; P<0.05; left hand: OR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.10–0.38; P<0.05) and diabetes (right hand: OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.57–0.89; P<0.05; left hand: OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.58–0.88; P<0.05).

Conclusion

Enhanced handgrip strength was significantly associated with lower prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes in older adults. Participating in physical activity should be recommended to older adults for maintaining handgrip strength.

Validity of the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation questionnaire in rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

The Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) is a patient-reported questionnaire focusing on symptoms and function in wrist pathologies. It consists of 15 questions regarding pain and functional activities of the wrist. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multi-systemic disease characterized by inflammation of the wrist and hand joints in almost all patients. This study aims to test the validity of PRWE in patients with RA.

METHOD

Seventy-five patients with RA from a single outpatient clinic participated in the study. Patients filled out the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHOQ) and grip strength of both hands were measured. Patients filled out the PRWE questionnaire consecutively once for the dominant and once for the non-dominant hand. Correlations between PRWE and MHOQ and grip strength scores were analyzed by Spearman's correlation method.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that there was a very strong correlation between the PRWE and the MHOQ and a moderate correlation between the PRWE and grip strength (P < .001). PRWE also showed negative and fair correlation with grip strength of both hands (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation is a valid tool for evaluating wrist involvement in patients with RA. PRWE may be preferred in the busy clinical setting since it has simple and short questions. Additionally, it may provide a sensitive follow-up tool for patients separately using its subscales of pain and function.

Site-specific Patient-reported Outcome Measures for Hand Conditions: Systematic Review of Development and Psychometric Properties

Background

There are a number of site-specific patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for hand conditions used in clinical practice and research for assessing the efficacy of surgical and nonsurgical interventions. The most commonly used hand-relevant PROMs are as follows: Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), QuickDASH (qDASH), Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ), Patient Evaluation Measure (PEM), Upper Extremity Functional Index (UEFI), and Duruoz Hand Index (DHI). There has been no systematic evaluation of the published psychometric properties of these PROMs.

Methods

A PRISMA-compliant systematic review of the development and validation studies of these hand PROMs was prospectively registered in PROSPERO and conducted to assess their psychometric properties. A search strategy was applied to Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. Abstract screening was performed in duplicate. Assessment of psychometric properties was performed.

Results

The search retrieved 943 articles, of which 54 articles met predefined inclusion criteria. There were 19 studies evaluating DASH, 8 studies evaluating qDASH, 13 studies evaluating MHQ, 5 studies evaluating UEFI, 4 studies evaluating PEM, and 5 studies evaluating DHI. Assessment of content validity, internal consistency, construct validity, reproducibility, responsiveness, floor/ceiling effect, and interpretability for each PROM is described.

Conclusions

The psychometric properties of the most commonly used PROMs in hand research are not adequately described in the published literature. DASH, qDASH, and MHQ have the best-published psychometric properties, though they have either some poor psychometric performance or incompletely studied psychometric properties. There are more limited published data describing the psychometric properties of the UEFI, PEM, and DHI.

Comparison of responsiveness of Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire, and Duruöz Hand Index in patients with traumatic hand injury

OBJECTIVE

Patient-reported outcome measures assessing self-reported disability, pain, and function are primary endpoints for determination of optimal treatment strategies in hand-related conditions. In this study, we aimed to compare responsiveness of Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH), and Duruöz Hand Index (DHI) in patients with traumatic hand injury.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with traumatic hand injury who were referred to our polyclinic for rehabilitation were included in the study. Depending on clinical status, patients underwent at least 14 sessions of physical therapy consisting of infrared heating, water submersion ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and exercise. MHQ, DASH, and DHI questionnaires were filled in by all patients both before and 3 months after physical therapy.

RESULTS

A total of 60 patients were enrolled in the study. MHQ (ES =-1.89; SRM =-1.84), DASH (ES = 1.66; SRM = 1.40), and DHI (ES = 1.68; SRM = 1.48) were all highly responsive in traumatic hand injuries.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that MHQ, DASH, and DHI are very responsive questionnaires for detection of treatment-induced changes in patients with traumatic hand injury. We suggest that when it is only intended to assess hand disability or when a quick assessment is desirable, DASH or DHI are more suitable, whereas MHQ will be more useful when a more detailed assessment including pain and aesthetical concerns is required.

Performance of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire in hand osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the performance of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) in hand osteoarthritis (OA) by evaluating truth, discrimination and feasibility.

DESIGN

Symptomatic hand OA patients from the Hand Osteoarthritis in Secondary Care (HOSTAS) cohort completed questionnaires (demographics, MHQ, Australian/Canadian Hand Osteoarthritis Index [AUSCAN], Functional Index for Hand Osteoarthritis [FIHOA] and visual analogue scale [VAS] pain) at baseline (n = 383), 1- and 2-year follow-up (n = 312, n = 293). Anchor questions at follow-up assessed whether pain/function levels were (un)acceptable and had changed compared to baseline. Correlations between MHQ and other pain/function questionnaires were calculated. Validity of unique MHQ domains (work performance, aesthetics, satisfaction), discrimination across disease stages, and responsiveness were assessed by categorizing patients by external anchors (employment, joint deformities, erosions, and anchor questions). Between-group differences were assessed with linear regression, probability plots and comparison of medians.

RESULTS

MHQ pain and function subscales correlated moderately-to-good with other instruments (r_s 0.63-0.81). Work performance scores were worse in patients with reduced working capacity than in employed patients. Aesthetics scores were worse in patients with more deformities. Patients with unacceptable complaints had worse satisfaction scores. All pain/function instruments discriminated between patients with acceptable vs unacceptable pain/function, while only MHQ activities of daily living (ADL), FIHOA, and MHQ aesthetics could discriminate between erosive and non-erosive disease. MHQ and AUSCAN were most responsive.

CONCLUSIONS

MHQ has several unique aspects and advantages justifying its use in hand OA, including the unique assessment of work performance, aesthetics, and satisfaction. However, MHQ, AUSCAN and FIHOA appear to measure different aspects of pain and function.

Exploring the relation between impairment rating by DAS-28 and body function, activity participation, and environmental factors based on ICF hand core set in the patient with rheumatoid arthritis

Hand problems associated with rheumatoid arthritis lead to subjective impairment, activity limitation, and restrictions on participation. This relation is very complex. Assessment of individuals' activities is important to determine how hand problems affect not only body functions but also daily life activities. The aim of this study was to link and allocate items of disability questionnaires with ICF components based on ICF hand core set. The other objective was to examine the relationship between impairment and ICF components determined on the basis of disability questionnaires in participants with rheumatoid arthritis. Impairment was evaluated by use of Disease Activity Score-28. Disability questionnaires were Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire, Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire, Duruoz Hand Index, and Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 (n = 100). Items of disability questionnaires were linked with ICF hand core set as a result of three expert opinions. Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire covered the highest number of body function categories and Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 covered the highest number of ICF hand core set. For all questionnaires, while impairment (Disease Activity Score-28) had moderate correlation with subjective impairment (body function scores) and activity/participation; subjective impairment had high and moderate correlation with activity participation. Arthritis Impact Measurement Scale 2 is the most appropriate to perform a more comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment. Clinician's assessments and impairment levels reported by patients with rheumatoid arthritis are interrelated. Impairment levels reported by patients with rheumatoid arthritis are also affected by environmental factors.

Patient reported outcomes of hand function three years after stroke

OBJECTIVE

To comprehensively describe hand function and associated factors among stroke survivors by means of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ; 6 domains; score 0-100, worst-best).

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, stroke patients were invited to complete a set of questionnaires on hand function, socio-demographic characteristics, mental functioning, daily activities, quality of life, and caregiver strain. Stroke characteristics were collected retrospectively from medical records. Multiple linear regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, and duration of follow-up was used to identify factors associated with MHQ score.

RESULTS

207 out of 576 eligible patients responded (36%); mean age 63.8 years (SD14.2), 125 males (60.4%). Mean time since stroke was 36.3 months (SD9.9). In 85% of the patients, the MHQ Total score was less than 100 points (median 79.9, IQR 63.0-95.8). The median scores of the domains were: overall hand function 75.0, daily activities 90.5, work 85.0, pain 100, appearance 93.8, and satisfaction with hand function 83.3. A lower MHQ Total score was significantly associated with a lower Barthel Index at hospital discharge, a lower level of education, a supratentorial stroke and with unfavorable outcomes regarding physical and mental functioning, quality of life, and caregiver strain.

CONCLUSION

Patients can perceive limitations on several domains with respect to hand function 2-5 years after stroke. Problems related to the appearance of the hand and satisfaction with hand function can be relevant and should be considered accordingly. Persistent hand problems after stroke are related to a more severe, supratentorial stroke in lower educated patients.

Dynamic assessment of the wrist after total wrist arthroplasty

Our aim was to assess the outcome in patients with total wrist arthroplasty performed for end stage wrist osteoarthritis. We analysed the ranges of motion of operated and un-operated wrists using a flexible electrogoniometer during the Sollerman hand function test. We assessed grip strength with a digital dynamometer and completed patient reported outcome scores more than one year post-operatively. We reviewed 12 patients with a mean age of 64 (range 48-82) years. The flexion-extension arc was 72% and radioulnar deviation arc was 53% of the un-operated side but the total range of motion (area of circumduction) was 43% of the un-operated side and only 20% of the circumduction in age and gender-matched normal volunteers. Peak grip strength was 68% of the un-operated side. The patients reported good outcome with mean Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) scores of 56 (range 25-84) and mean Patient Evaluation Measure (PEM) scores of 39 (range 20-68). Patients completed the activities of Sollerman hand function test in twice the time (6 min) as required for a normal volunteer (2.8 min). The circumduction ellipses were narrow and central with limited radio-ulnar deviation and small mean areas of motion during activities of daily living.

Seven-Year Outcomes of the Silicone Arthroplasty in Rheumatoid Arthritis Prospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes destruction of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints, leading to hand deformities, pain, and loss of function. This study prospectively assessed long-term functional and health-related quality-of-life outcomes in RA patients with severe deformity at the MCP joints.

METHODS

RA patients between ages 18 to 80 years with severe deformity at the MCP joints were referred to 1 of the 3 study sites. Subjects who elected to undergo silicone metacarpophalangeal joint arthroplasty (SMPA) while continuing with medical management were followed in the SMPA cohort. Subjects who elected to continue with medical management alone without surgery were followed in the non-SMPA cohort. Objective measurements included grip and pinch strength as well as arc of motion, ulnar drift, and extensor lag of the MCP joints. Patient-reported outcomes included the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) and the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales questionnaire. Radiographs of SMPA implants were assessed and graded as intact, deformed, or fractured.

RESULTS

MHQ scores showed large improvements post-SMPA, and baseline-adjusted expected outcomes in the SMPA group were significantly better at year 7 in function, aesthetics, satisfaction, and overall score compared to non-SMPA. SMPA subjects did not improve in grip or pinch strength, but achieved significant improvement and maintained the improvement long term in ulnar drift and extensor lag.

CONCLUSION

Benefits of the SMPA procedure are maintained over 7 years with low rates of implant fracture or deformity. Non-SMPA patients remained stable in their hand function over the 7-year study duration.

The effects of arthritis gloves on people with Rheumatoid Arthritis or Inflammatory Arthritis with hand pain: a study protocol for a multi-centre randomised controlled trial (the A-GLOVES trial)

Background

Arthritis gloves are regularly provided as part of the management of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and undifferentiated (early) inflammatory arthritis (IA). Usually made of nylon and elastane (i.e. Lycra®), these arthritis gloves apply pressure with the aims of relieving hand pain, stiffness and improving hand function. However, a systematic review identified little evidence supporting their use. We therefore designed a trial to compare the effectiveness of the commonest type of arthritis glove provided in the United Kingdom (Isotoner gloves) (intervention) with placebo (control) gloves (i.e. larger arthritis gloves providing similar warmth to the intervention gloves but minimal pressure only) in people with these conditions.

Methods

Participants aged 18 years and over with RA or IA and persistent hand pain will be recruited from National Health Service Trusts in the United Kingdom. Following consent, participants will complete a questionnaire booklet, then be randomly allocated to receive intervention or placebo arthritis gloves. Within three weeks, they will be fitted with the allocated gloves by clinical specialist rheumatology occupational therapists. Twelve weeks (i.e. the primary endpoint) after completing the baseline questionnaire, participants will complete a second questionnaire, including the same measures plus additional questions to explore adherence, benefits and problems with glove-wear. A sub-sample of participants from each group will be interviewed at the end of their participation to explore their views of the gloves received. The clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the intervention, compared to placebo gloves, will be evaluated over 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure is hand pain during activity. Qualitative interviews will be thematically analysed.

Discussion

This study will evaluate the commonest type of arthritis glove (Isotoner) provided in the NHS (i.e. the intervention) compared to a placebo glove. The results will help occupational therapists, occupational therapy services and people with arthritis make informed choices as to the value of arthritis gloves. If effective, arthritis gloves should become more widely available in the NHS to help people with RA and IA manage hand symptoms and improve performance of daily activities, work and leisure. If not, services can determine whether to cease supplying these to reduce service costs.

Trial registration

ISRCTN Registry: ISRCTN25892131 Registered 05/09/2016

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12891-017-1583-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Influence of Psychological Factors on the Michigan Hand Questionnaire

Background: Psychosocial factors help account for the gap between impairment and disability. This study examines the relationship between the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) and commonly used psychological measures in patients with upper extremity illness. Methods: A cohort of 135 new or follow-up patients presenting to an urban academic hospital-based hand surgeon were invited to complete a web-based version of the MHQ, Abbreviated Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), and two Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS)-based questionnaires: Pain Interference and Depression. Bivariate and multivariable analyses measured the correlation of these psychological measures with MHQ. Results: Accounting for potential confounding factors in multivariable regression, upper extremity disability as rated by the MHQ was independently associated with PROMIS Depression, PROMIS Pain Interference, visit type, and working status. The model accounted for 37% of the variability in MHQ scores, with PROMIS Pain Interference having the most influence. Conclusion: Among the non-pathophysiological factors that contribute to patient-to-patient variation in MHQ scores, the measure of less effective coping strategies and symptoms of depression were most influential. Our data add to the evidence of the pivotal role of emotional health in upper extremity symptoms and limitations and the importance of psychosocial considerations in the care of hand illness.

An empirical evaluation of the SF-12, SF-6D, EQ-5D and Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire in patients with rheumatoid arthritis of the hand

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties, namely acceptability, validity, reliability, interpretability and responsiveness of the EuroQol EQ-5D (EQ-5D visual analogue (VAS) and EQ-5D (utility)), Short Form 12 Dimensions (SF-12), SF-6D and Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) of the hand.

METHODS

The empirical investigation was based upon data from a randomised controlled trial of 488 adults with rheumatoid arthritis who had pain and dysfunction of the hands and/or wrists. Participants completed the EQ-5D, SF-12 and MHQ at baseline and at 4 and 12 months follow up. Acceptability was measured using completion rates over time; construct validity using the "known groups" approach, based on pain troublesomeness; convergent validity using spearman's rho correlation (ρ); reliability using internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha); interpretability using minimal important differences (MID); and responsiveness using effect sizes and standardised response means (SRM) stratified by level of self-rated improvement in hand and wrist function or level of self-rated benefit and satisfaction from trial treatments.

RESULTS

At baseline, the study population had a mean age of 62.4 years, a mean MHQ score of 52.1 and included 76% women. The EQ-5D (utility) had the highest completion rates across time points. All instruments discriminated between pre-specified groups based on pain troublesomeness. Convergent validity analysis indicated that the MHQ score correlated strongly with the EQ-5D (ρ = 0.65) and SF-6D (ρ = 0.63) utility scores. The MHQ was most responsive at detecting change in indicators of RA pain severity between baseline and 4 months, whilst minimal important differences varied considerably across PROMs.

CONCLUSIONS

The instruments evaluated in this study displayed varying psychometric properties in the context of RA of the hand. The selection of a preferred instrument in evaluative studies should ultimately depend on the relative importance placed on individual psychometric properties and the importance placed on generation of health utilities for economic evaluation purposes.

Relationship Between Lymph Node Volume and Pain Following Certolizumab Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis Flare: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES

The mechanisms that trigger flare in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are unknown. In murine arthritis models, dysfunctional lymph node (LN) drainage is associated with joint flare. To examine if LN alterations are associated with RA flare, we analyzed the change in LN volume via contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) in patients with active joint flare at baseline and 16 weeks after certolizumab pegol (CZP) therapy. We also assessed the changes in popliteal or epitrochlear LN volumes versus the Rheumatoid and Arthritis Outcome Score (RAOS) (knee), or the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ; wrist/hand), and Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28), at baseline and 16 weeks.

RESULTS

Total LN volume in 7 of 10 patients with measurable LN on CE-MRI significantly decreased 16 weeks after CZP therapy (mean decrease 37%; P = 0.0019). Improvement in knee pain measured by the RAOS (P = 0.03) inversely correlated with a decrease in total popliteal LN volume (R² = 0.94). All patients demonstrated significant improvement in DAS28 (mean decrease 1.48; P = 0.0002). For flare in the hand, significant improvement in activities of daily living (ADL) as measured by the MHQ was observed (left hand mean improvement 20%; P = 0.02; right hand mean improvement 37%; P = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

RA patients with the smallest change in LN volume during anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy experienced the greatest pain relief in symptomatic knee joints. Moreover, the remarkably linear inverse correlation between LN volume and joint pain observed in this small clinical pilot provides initial evidence to support the concept that dynamic changes in draining LN volume are a biomarker of clinical response to therapy in RA.

Evaluating radiocarpal cartilage matrix changes 3-months after anti-TNF treatment for rheumatoid arthritis using MR T1ρ imaging

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility of MR T1ρ in assessing radiocarpal cartilage matrix changes following rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five healthy controls and nine RA patients were studied: three RA patients with low disease activity that were treated with methotrexate (MTX) alone and six with active disease despite MTX treatment who were additionally treated with certolizumab pegol, an anti-tumor necrosis factor biologic. Wrist 3 Tesla MRI were acquired at baseline and 3-month follow-up. T1ρ were quantified for lunar, radius, and scaphoid cartilage. Reproducibility was evaluated using coefficients of variation (CV). Longitudinal changes were evaluated with t-test and relationships between T1ρ with clinical, MRI, and patient-reported outcomes were evaluated with Spearman's rho.

RESULTS

Scan/re-scan CVs of T1ρ values were all <5%, and intra- and inter-reader CVs were all < 2.0%. Baseline scaphoid T1ρ values were significantly higher in RA patients compared with healthy controls (P = 0.032). Changes in T1ρ (baseline, 3-month) were correlated with EULAR treatment response criteria: -2.26 ± 0.75 ms, 1.08 ± 0.52 ms, and 2.18 ± 0.45 ms for good, moderate, and nonresponders, respectively. Significant correlations were found between changes in global T1ρ values and changes in DAS28-CRP (r_s  = 0.683; P = 0.042), MHQ (r_s  = -0.783; P = 0.013), and HAQ (r_s  = 0.833; P = 0.010).

CONCLUSION

Despite the limited sample size and follow-up time points, there were significant correlations between changes in radiocarpal T1ρ and changes in disease activity as assessed by clinical and patient-reported outcomes. Our findings encourage further research into MR T1ρ assessment of RA disease activity and treatment response.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

1 J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1514-1522.

Hand impairment and functional ability: A matched case comparison study between people with rheumatoid arthritis and healthy controls

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare hand impairment and function in a cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and matched healthy participants.

Methods

A matched case comparison research design comparing hand impairment and functional ability between patients with rheumatoid arthritis and healthy participants (males or females, aged ≥ 50 years). Functional ability was assessed using the Michigan Hand Questionnaire, power and pinch grip strength and the nine-hole peg test.

Results

A total of 100 participants (50 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and 50 matched healthy participants) were recruited. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis reported significantly lower overall hand function, activities of daily living, work, aesthetics, satisfaction ( p < 0.001) and significantly higher pain scores when compared with healthy controls. The patients with rheumatoid arthritis had significantly lower maximum power and pinch grip strength in both left and right hands ( p < 0.001) when compared with healthy controls. The rheumatoid arthritis group took significantly longer to complete the nine-hole peg test using both right and left hands compared with healthy controls ( p < 0.001, respectively). Additionally, in rheumatoid arthritis patients, a significant moderate, positive correlation between power grip strength and activities of daily living (r = 0.584, n = 50, p < 0.01) and a weak-to-moderate, significant negative correlation between power grip strength and pain (r = −0.314, n = 50, p < 0.05) were reported.

Conclusion

Despite the recent substantial improvement of drug therapy and disease control, the functional impact of rheumatoid arthritis on hand pain and function remains significant.

Patient and physician perspectives of hand function in a cohort of rheumatoid arthritis patients: the impact of disease activity

Background

In 2004, we initiated an inception cohort of patients with recent-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Hand function was incorporated into evaluations from 2014 onward. The objectives were to examine hand function in our cohort, compare hand function with function in healthy controls and determine the factors associated with impaired function.

Methods

From February 2014 to June 2015, 139 patients (97.2 % of the cohort) had disease activity scored (28 joints, [DAS28]); the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Outcome Measure (DASH) were completed, and the tip-, key- and palmar-pinch and grip strengths were measured. Sixty-nine healthy controls underwent the same evaluations. Ninety-nine patients underwent a second evaluation one year after their baseline. Descriptive statistics and linear regression models were used. Patients and controls signed informed consent.

Results

Patients were primarily middle-aged females with a median disease duration of 7 years; 91 patients had DAS28-remission, and 16, 23, and 9 patients had low, moderate and high disease activity, respectively. Controls scored better than did patients with (any) disease activity level; remission patients had similar DASH and key pinch function as did controls with poorer MHQ and both tip and palmar pinch and grip strength. DAS28 was consistently associated with impaired hand function. Among the patients with a one-year re-assessment, changes in DAS28 correlated (rho = 0.34 to 0.63) with changes in hand function (p ≤ 0.01 for all comparisons), but there was no correlation with palmar pinch strength.

Conclusions

Disease activity was associated with hand function impairment in RA patients with variable follow-up. MHQ discriminated poorer hand function in remission patients who otherwise had similar DASH scores as the controls did.

Measurement Properties of the Brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire in Patients With Dupuytren Contracture

PURPOSE

The brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (briefMHQ) was developed as a shorter version of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), but its measurement properties have not been investigated in patients with Dupuytren contracture. The objective of the study was to investigate the reliability, validity, responsiveness, and interpretability of the briefMHQ.

METHODS

Fifty-seven patients diagnosed with Dupuytren contracture completed the briefMHQ as well as the full-length MHQ and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire at baseline. Two to 14 days after baseline and 1 year after collagenase injection or surgery, patients again filled out the briefMHQ. Reliability was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient and by calculating internal consistency (Cronbach alpha). Validity was tested by quantifying correlations with the full-length MHQ and QuickDASH. Responsiveness, based on the standardized response mean and the minimally clinically important change, was also determined.

RESULTS

The briefMHQ had an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.87, Cronbach alpha of 0.88, and correlations of r = 0.88 and -0.82 with the original MHQ and QuickDASH, respectively. The standardized response mean was 0.9 and the minimally clinically important change was 7 points.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the briefMHQ demonstrates excellent reliability, good validity, and high responsiveness in patients with Dupuytren contracture.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The briefMHQ is an accurate and time-saving tool to evaluate patients with Dupuytren contracture and the effect of a corresponding treatment.

Responsiveness of three Patient Report Outcome (PRO) measures in patients with hand fractures: A preliminary cohort study

STUDY DESIGN

Clinical measurement.

INTRODUCTION

Few studies describe the responsiveness of functional outcomes measures in patients sustaining hand fractures.

PURPOSE

1--To explore the responsiveness of three function-oriented Patient Report Outcome (PRO) measures with a cohort of hand fracture patients. 2--To examine patients' PRO preference.

METHODS

60 participants with 74 hand fractures at an outpatient hospital-based hand therapy clinic consented to participate in this study. They completed the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (DASH), Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), and Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) at three trials: T1 (evaluation), T2 (one month later), and T3 (two months later). Participants also identified which PRO they felt best reflected their hand use and which was easiest to complete. Descriptive statistics, analyses of variance (ANOVA), effect size, and standardized response mean (SRM) were employed to describe participants, determine functional change between trials, and examine and compare PRO responsiveness. Questionnaire preference at T1 was reported.

RESULTS

Participants demonstrated functional improvement, as measured by the DASH, PRWHE, and MHQ. T1 scores: DASH = 41.85 (SD ± 22.78), MHQ = 50.13 (SD ± 18.36), and PRWHE = 48.18 (SD ± 22.07). T2 scores: DASH = 22.11 (SD ± 18.18), MHQ = 69.89 (SD ± 15.93), and PRWHE = 22.62 (SD ± 18.15). T3 scores: DASH = 17.56 (SD ± 18.01), MHQ = 75.37 (SD ± 19.19), and PRWHE = 22.40 (SD ± 19.04). Each PRO demonstrated significant test score differences between trials (p < .001). Large responsiveness (≥.80) was noted between T1 and T2: (effect size: .98-1.23; SRM: 1.31-1.49) and T1 and T3 (effect size: 1.21-1.54; SRM 1.49-1.84). Smaller responsiveness effects were noted between T2 and T3 (effect size: .35-.64, SRM: .38-.81). No significant differences between questionnaire responsiveness were found. Patients reported PRWHE easiest to complete and MHQ best reflecting their hand use.

CONCLUSIONS

DASH, MHQ, and PRWHE were each able to describe functional limitations in this cohort of patients with hand fractures. In capturing improvement over time they demonstrated comparable responsiveness in assessing change in patients with hand fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2c.

Validity and responsiveness of the Michigan Hand Questionnaire in patients with systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to assess the validity and responsiveness of the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) in patients with SSc.

METHODS

Data were gathered in connection with a randomized, controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of a 12-week multidisciplinary team care programme, including a hand function treatment module, with regular care. Hand function was evaluated by the MHQ (37 items, six domains: Function, Daily activities, Pain, Work, Aesthetics and Satisfaction) and other measurements, including the HAQ, Hand Mobility in Scleroderma, Sequential Occupational Dexterity Assessment (SODA), grip strength, pinch grip and modified Rodnan Skin Score. Fifty-three patients (28 intervention group and 25 control group) completed evaluation at baseline and after 12 weeks. Validity was determined by computing Spearman correlation coefficients between the baseline MHQ total score and subscales and other measures of (hand) disability. Responsiveness in the intervention group was evaluated by the standardized response mean and effect size (ES). In addition, the pooled ES for the difference between the two groups was computed.

RESULTS

Significant correlations were seen between the MHQ total score and the HAQ (r = -0.62), Hand Mobility in Scleroderma (r = -0.54), SODA (r = 0.47), SODA Pain (r = 0.32) and modified Rodnan Skin Score (r = 0.46). The ES of the MHQ total score within the intervention group was 0.49, which was larger than that of all other outcome measures. Similar results were obtained for the standardized response mean. The pooled ES of the difference between intervention and control groups for the MHQ total score was 0.86.

CONCLUSION

The MHQ demonstrated adequate validity and responsiveness in patients with SSc.

Reliability and Validity of the Japanese Version of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire: A Comparison with the DASH and SF-36 Questionnaires

Background: The Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) has shown reliability, validity and responsiveness and has been used to assess surgical outcomes mainly in North America. We established a Japanese version of the MHQ and evaluated its reliability and validity compared with both the short-form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire in a Japanese-speaking population.

Methods: The MHQ was cross-culturally adapted to a Japanese version according to guidelines. Sixty-eight patients with hand conditions were enrolled in this study and answered the MHQ, DASH questionnaire and SF-36 questionnaire. The MHQ was completed again with an interval of one or two weeks. Reproducibility and internal consistency were statistically assessed by the test-retest method and calculating Cronbach's alpha. Spearman's rank correlation was calculated to assess associations between the MHQ and the SF-36 questionnaire as well as the DASH questionnaire.

Results: The intraclass correlation coefficients of MHQ subscales ranged from 0.68 to 0.93. Aesthetics subscale of the left hand showed the lowest intraclass correlation but still a good correlation. Cronbach's alpha values of the MHQ ranged from 0.81 to 0.96 for all subscales. The absolute values of Spearman's rank correlation coefficient between MHQ subscales and DASH function/symptoms scores ranged from 0.49 to 0.82. Spearman's correlation coefficients of the MHQ total score to subscales of the SF-36 questionnaire ranged from 0.42 to 0.68. The strongest correlations were found between work performance of the MHQ and rolephysical of the SF-36 questionnaire.

Conclusions: The Japanese version of the MHQ has adequate instrument properties for assessing hand outcomes compared with the SF-36 questionnaire as well as the DASH questionnaire.

Applying the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System to Assess Upper Extremity Function among Children with Congenital Hand Differences

BACKGROUND

Few studies have evaluated self-assessment tools among children with congenital hand differences. The authors compared three upper extremity disability instruments with the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pediatric Upper Extremity Item Bank.

METHODS

Thirty-three children (aged 6 to 17 years) with congenital hand differences completed the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument; the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire; the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire; and the PROMIS Upper Extremity short form and computerized adaptive test. Hand function was also assessed, and construct validity and feasibility were examined.

RESULTS

PROMIS demonstrated good construct validity. Short form and computerized adaptive test were highly correlated with Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire scores (r = 0.80, p < 0.001) and Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument domains (r = 0.70, p < 0.001). PROMIS was moderately correlated with the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (r = 0.40, p < 0.05). PROMIS scores also correlated with grip (r = 0.60, p < 0.001) and pinch strength (r = 0.50, p < 0.001). Compared with the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and Michigan Hand Outcomes questionnaires, PROMIS required the least time to complete with fewer children requiring assistance.

CONCLUSION

The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System is highly correlated with both functional assessment and self-reported function among children with congenital hand differences.

Validity of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire in Patients With Stroke

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the measurement properties of the Dutch version of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) in patients with stroke.

DESIGN

Validation study.

SETTING

Outpatient rehabilitation clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

Consecutive patients with stroke (N=51; mean age, 60±11y; 16 women [31%]).

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were asked to complete the MHQ (57 items) and Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Additional assessments included the Barthel Index and performance tests for hand function (Action Research Arm Test, Nine Hole Peg Test, Frenchay Arm Test, Motricity Index).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Associations between the MHQ and other outcome measures were determined using Spearman correlation coefficients and the internal consistency of the MHQ using Cronbach α. Floor or ceiling effects were present if >15% of the patients scored minimal or maximal scores, respectively. Test-retest reliability was established by the intraclass correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The mean MHQ total score was 70.0±22.4, with Cronbach α being .97. The MHQ total score correlated significantly with the physical component summary of the SF-36, the Barthel Index, and all hand function performance tests (P<.01). The MHQ total score showed no floor or ceiling effects. The test-retest intraclass correlation coefficient was .97.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides preliminary evidence that the MHQ is an internally consistent, valid, and reliable hand function questionnaire in outpatients after stroke, although these results need to be further confirmed.

Cross-cultural adaptation, validation, and reliability of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire among Persian population

We aimed to validate a cross-culturally adapted version of the Persian Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHOQ). We followed the Beaton's guideline to translate the questionnaire to Persian. We administered the final version to 223 patients among which 79 patients returned 3 days later to respond to the Persian MHOQ for the second time. In the first visit, respondents also filled the Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and rated the pain based on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Cronbach's alpha for the total MHOQ was 0.79 which showed good internal consistency. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the total MHOQ was 0.84 which demonstrated good reliability between test and retest. The absolute correlation coefficient between total MHOQ and the DASH was as high as 0.74. Persian version of the MHOQ proved to be a reliable and valid instrument to be implemented among Persian population with the hand and wrist disorders.

Reliability and internal validity of the michigan hand questionnaire

BACKGROUND

The Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) remains one of very few to be based on validated and systematic methods in its creation. However, test-retest reliability and internal validity have not been appropriately investigated in any other English-speaking population outside the original development sample. The objective of this study is to examine the reliability and internal validity of the MHQ in a Canadian population.

METHODS

All patients with a clinical hand problem but no hand immobilization who attended our Plastic Surgery Clinic were invited to participate in this study. Patients were asked to complete the MHQ, and then contacted to arrange for completion of the MHQ a second time. Internal validity was estimated using Cronbach alpha. Reliability was estimated using the method of Bland and Altman, and intraclass correlation coefficients. Correlation analysis between score differences and time between tests was performed.

RESULTS

Full versions of the MHQ were completed by 116 participants on their initial visit, while only 77 participants completed a second MHQ. Cronbach alpha ranged from 0.84 to 0.95 for the MHQ subscales. Intraclass-correlation coefficients ranged from 0.71 to 0.84 for the subscales. The magnitude of the limits of agreement for the subscales ranged from 13.8 to 26.2. The difference in scores between the first and second tests was not related to the time between tests.

CONCLUSION

The high values of Cronbach alpha indicate high internal validity, but that there may be redundancy between items in the MHQ, which could be eliminated without losing information. Reliability of the MHQ is considered moderate. The limits of agreement are considered wide, indicating potential issues with respect to interpretation of a change in score between 2 administrations of the MHQ.

Advances in the healing of flexor tendon injuries

The intrasynovial flexor tendons of the hand are critical for normal hand function. Injury to these tendons can result in absent finger flexion, and a subsequent loss of overall hand function. The surgical techniques used to repair these tendons have improved in the past few decades, as have the postoperative rehabilitation protocols. In spite of these advances, intrasynovial flexor tendon repairs continue to be plagued by postoperative scar formation, which limits tendon gliding and prevents a full functional recovery. This paper describes the current challenges of flexor tendon repair, and evaluates the most recent advances and strategies for achieving an excellent functional outcome.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) for Brazil: validation study

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic disease that causes joint damage. A variety of methods have been used to evaluate the general health status of these patients but few have specifically evaluated the hands. The objective of this study was to translate, perform cultural adaptation and assess the validity of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire for Brazil.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Validation study conducted at a university hospital in Curitiba, Brazil.

METHODS

Firstly, the questionnaire was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and back-translated into English. The Portuguese version was tested on 30 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and proved to be understandable and culturally adapted. After that, 30 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were evaluated three times. On the first occasion, two evaluators applied the questionnaire to check inter-rater reproducibility. After 15 days, one of the evaluators reassessed the patients to verify intra rater reproducibility. To check the construct validity at the first assessment, one of the evaluators also applied other similar instruments.

RESULTS

There were strong inter and intra rater correlations in all the domains of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha was higher than 0.90 for all the domains of the questionnaire, thus indicating excellent internal validity. Almost all domains of the questionnaire presented moderate or strong correlation with other instruments, thereby showing good construct validity.

CONCLUSION

The Brazilian Portuguese version of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire was translated and culturally adapted successfully, and it showed excellent internal consistency, reproducibility and construct validity.