The effects of hand splinting in patients with early-stage thumb carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis: a randomized, controlled study

BACKGROUND/AIM: Evidence for the effectiveness of splinting in thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis is limited. We aimed to evaluate the effects of a prefabricated carpometacarpal metacarpophalangeal immobilization splint on pain, hand function, and hand strength in patients with early-stage thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-three hands with stage 1 or 2 thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis were enrolled in the study. The nonsplint group received oral information about how to accommodate daily activities. The splint group was given a prefabricated carpometacarpal metacarpophalangeal immobilization splint for 6 weeks. Pain was evaluated using the Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index (AUSCAN). Hand functions were evaluated using the AUSCAN and the Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Q-DASH) questionnaire. Grip and pinch strengths were measured using a hydraulic dynamometer and a hydraulic pinch gauge. RESULTS: The AUSCAN pain, stiffness, function, total scores, and Q-DASH scores were significantly decreased in the splint group compared to the nonsplint group. Significant increments in grip and pinch strengths were detected in the splint group compared to the nonsplint group. CONCLUSION: The prefabricated carpometacarpal metacarpophalangeal immobilization splint is effective in improving pain, hand function, and hand strength in patients with thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis.