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Abstract Background Arthritis and joint pain are highly prevalent in agricultural (ag) workers. Many ag operations are sustained by a small number of workers, and the disability of even one worker thus contributes to economic hardship. This study investigated associations between joint health in Montana ag workers and economic well-being and work capacity. Methods This observational mixed-methods study utilized quantitative survey data and qualitative focus group data. 299 ranchers and farmers in 9 Montana counties completed either an online or paper survey that included participant demographics, joint symptoms, history of arthritis and arthritis type, financial status, work capacity, and the need to rely on others to complete one’s work. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities arthritis index (WOMAC) survey was completed by those with hip or knee pain. Data were entered into REDCap v8.9.2 for analysis with SAS 9.4, using logistic and linear regression models to detect associations between covariables and to calculate odds ratios and confidence intervals. Focus groups were held with ranchers in two Montana counties, discussing similar topics, and the themes expressed were identified. Results 87.6% of survey respondents reported joint pain, 47.8% a diagnosis of arthritis, and 22.4% osteoarthritis (OA). A 10-point increase in WOMAC was significantly associated with lower work capacity (OR 2.00; 95% CI [1.58, 2.55], p

Objective. To compare scores for the Leeds enthesitis index in psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis using clinical assessment and ultrasonography (US). Design. Swelling and tenderness of the enthesis was assessed at six sites: lateral epicondyles of humerus (LE), medial condyles of femur (MC), and the insertion of the Achilles tendon (AT). US assessed "inflammatory activity" (power Doppler signal, oedema, tendon thickening, and bursal swelling) and "damage" (erosions and enthesophytes). Results. 94 patients were included, 71 with PsA and 23 with RA. The patients with RA were significantly older (PsA 47.6 years; RA 62.6 years; (mean difference in ages =15.0 years, 95% CI 9.3-20.7 years)). US scores were higher in RA at the LE, significantly so for the "damage" scores. No differences between RA and PsA were seen at the other sites. As a result, the odds ratio for PsA, given an US score above the median, was 0.41 (0.13-1.03). However, using the clinical score, the odds ratio for PsA was 2.16 (0.81-5.70). Conclusions. Although clinical scores of enthesitis are greater in PsA compared to RA, US enthesitis scores did not distinguish between RA and PsA. This may in part be due to more frequent juxta-articular involvement in RA and in part due to the older age of the subjects with RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]