To investigate the possession and use of walking aids among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA), and to identify factors contributing to possession and actual use of these aids.
A random sample of 640 patients with RA or OA was derived from a database of 6,500 registered patients. A total of 410 (64%) patients (223 RA, 187 OA) completed a questionnaire on possession and use of walking aids. Demographics, disease-related characteristics, and information about possession and use were assessed. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine which factors are associated with the possession and use of walking aids.
Forty-nine percent of the RA patients and 44% of the OA patients owned a walking aid. Canes, forearm crutches, walkers, and orthopedic footwear were most frequently possessed. In the RA group, age, education, frequency of pain, and disability were associated with possessing a walking aid. In the OA group, age and disability were associated with possession. Approximately 30% of the owners did not use their walking aid. Factors associated with the actual use of an aid included higher age, a high intensity of pain, more disability, decrease in morning stiffness by the aid, and a positive evaluation of the aid.
Almost half of patients with RA or OA possess a walking aid. Disability, pain, and age-related impairments seem to determine the need for a walking aid. Nonuse is associated with less need, negative outcome, and negative evaluation of the walking aid.