[Methods for evaluating non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents in rheumatoid polyarthritis].

The study of the effectiveness of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs in rheumatoid arthritis requires only short term trials using simple, sensitive and reproducible tests based upon evaluation of pain. The estimation of spontaneous pain by the visual pain scale, number of nocturnal awakenings, Ritchie joint index, morning stiffness, grip strength and Lee functional index are the most informative parameters. The results of these quantitative tests of pain are usually in close agreement with patient judgement which remains the most important criterion.