Which of the following is an indicator of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints, particularly in the hands, wrists, and feet. One of the hallmark symptoms of this condition is joint pain and stiffness. When it comes to driving, pain in the hands can significantly impact a person's ability to steer effectively, as the hands are essential for controlling the steering wheel and operating the vehicle safely. Therefore, recognizing pain in the hands as a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is crucial for CMV drivers, as it could lead to compromised control of the vehicle.

Increased flexibility in joints is not typically associated with rheumatoid arthritis; in fact, the condition tends to lead to decreased mobility and increased stiffness. Pain in the lower back might arise from various conditions but is not a defining symptom of rheumatoid arthritis specifically. Muscle spasms in the legs can result from different causes as well, but do not directly indicate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, which primarily focus on the joints. Thus, pain in the hands affecting steering aligns closely with the key symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and emphasizes the need for drivers to assess their capability to operate a vehicle safely.