Association of Low Muscle Density With Deteriorations in Muscle Strength and Physical Functioning in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with low muscle density due to the accumulation of intramuscular fat. The present study was undertaken to identify predictors of changes in muscle density and to determine whether low muscle density predicted changes in strength and physical function.

Methods

Patients with RA, ages 18-70 years, completed whole-body dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and peripheral quantitative computed tomography to quantify lean and fat mass indices and muscle density. Dynamometry was used to measure strength at the hand, knee, and lower leg. Disability and physical function were measured with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Assessments were performed at baseline and at follow-up. Re

SUBMITTER: Baker JF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7295665 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature