Comparison of Functionality Level, Disability and Quality of Life in Subjects with Peripheral Nerve Repair in the Upper Extremity

Background: Peripheral nerve damage is a very important factor in patients' quality of life and functionality for various reasons. We aimed to compare the functionality level, disability and quality of life in subjects with peripheral nerve repair in the upper extremity. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with nerve injuries in 2019. Among those patients, Eighty-five were selected as the sample. The instruments used in this study included the health-related quality of life standard questionnaire (SF-36), and the disability of the arm, shoulder and hand questionnaire (DASH-38). Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 22 and one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests. Results: Results of the Kruskal-Wallis test showed that the disability score in the groups of patients was not significant. In addition, according to the results of the one-way ANOVA test, the quality of life score was not significant among the patient groups. Conclusion: Considering that peripheral nerve damage has a significant impact on patients' quality of life and functionality, apart from more research on the subject, it is necessary to provide support for patients to improve their quality of life.