Hand kinematics in osteoarthritis patients while performing functional activities.

AROM measurements can be used as indicators for early diagnosis. Patients use specific strategies to accomplish each task, arising from AROM limitations; some tasks with very extreme postures. The tasks where precision or force are required for thumb are the most affected ones.Implications for rehabilitationActive range of motion is an indicator for early hand osteoarthritis diagnosis.Patients' functional ranges are reduced, and thumb opposition and gross dexterity are hindered.Rehabilitation should focus especially on tasks requiring precision and thumb strength.Rehabilitation should favor the improvement of task completion times.