The validity and the reliability of the Italian version of AIMS (Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales) was tested in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The factorial analysis performed on tests obtained from 274 patients showed a strict similarity with the original version. The five extracted factors (upper-limb function, lower-limb function, psycho-affective dimension, social dimension and pain) explain 80% of the common variance. The internal consistency (Cronbach's alfa coefficient = 0.78) and the test-retest performance (r = 0.86) support the reliability of the Italian AIMS. The analysis of the correlations with clinical parameters (the Ritchie's and Thompson's articular indexes, the systemic Lansbury's index, the joint count, the grip strength and morning stiffness), with pain measures (VAS, MPQ, PPI) and psychometric measures (ZDI, ZAI) assessed in 143 out of 274 patients, demonstrates the concurrent validity. The results show that the Italian version of AIMS is a practical value in the management of RA patients. The construct certainly allows its application even in other common chronic diseases.