ASSESSMENT OF LIMITED JOINT MOBILITY OF THE HAND AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG DIABETIC AND NON-DIABETIC PATIENTS IN ARBA MINCH GENERAL HOSPITAL, 2018

Abstract

Introduction: Limited joint mobility is one of the long-term complications of diabetes mellitus. It is defined as a painless non-inflammatory reduction in the mobility of hands, feet, and large joints. Limited joint mobility is a widespread problem among patients with diabetes mellitus and it affects more than two-thirds of them. The objective of this study was to assess limited joint mobility of the hand and associated factors among diabetic and non-diabetic patients in Arba Minch General Hospital, 2018. Methods: Institutional based comparative cross-sectional study design was conducted in Arba Minch General Hospital from October 15th to November 15th , 2018. Systematic sampling technique was applied to select 120 individuals in each group. Data was collected by pretested questionnaire and measuring the range of motions of hand joints using Goniometry. It was entered in to Epi-Info version 3.2 and transferred to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Descriptive frequency was calculated to describe the study population in relation to relevant variables. Independent T-test was conducted to compare the mean and standard deviation of range of motions of hand joints between the two groups. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the associated factors and P- Value < 0.05 was used to declare statistical significance. Result: The overall magnitude of limited joint mobility among diabetic patients was 17.1 % with 95 % CI (10.3, 23.1) where as in non-diabetic patients it accounts 4.3 % with 95 % CI (0.8, 7.7). The (mean + SD) for the composite score of hand extension in diabetic patients (227.98 + 87.220 )

was significantly lower than non-diabetic patients (276.96 + 78.180 ) p=0.001. The multivariable analysis indicated that age >50 years [AOR with 95% CI (3.9 (1.14, 13.36))] and co-morbidity with hypertension [AOR with 95% CI (3.26 (1.02, 10.41))] were identified significant associated factors with limited joint mobility of the hand. Conclusion and Recommendation: The magnitude of limited joint mobility in diabetics was higher than non-diabetic patients. The mean range of motions in the majority of hand joints were significantly decreased in diabetics as compared to non-diabetic patients. Health care providers (physicians) should consider routine hand joints examination in diabetic patients whose age >50 years (advanced age) and co-morbidity with hypertension.