Strengthening the thumb muscle for arthritis relief
Strengthening of the First Dorsal Interosseous for Thumb Carpometacarpal Osteoarthritis
This study tests whether specific exercises and splinting can help people with thumb arthritis feel less pain and improve their hand function.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Massachusetts General Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT03177577 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of strengthening the first dorsal interosseous muscle in patients suffering from thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis. It aims to determine whether targeted exercises can improve pain and function in individuals experiencing this common age-related condition. Participants will undergo a treatment regimen that includes splinting and specific strengthening exercises over a 12-week period. The study builds on previous findings that suggest enhancing muscle strength can stabilize the thumb joint and reduce symptoms.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults aged 18 and older who are currently receiving splint treatment for thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis.
Not a fit: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis or post-traumatic carpometacarpal osteoarthritis, as well as those who have recently received corticosteroid injections, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a low-cost, effective non-surgical option for improving thumb function and reducing pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches focusing on muscle strengthening for thumb osteoarthritis, indicating potential efficacy.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * At least 18 years old * English-speaking * Splint treatment for thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis Exclusion Criteria: * Less than 18 years old * Rheumatoid Arthritis or post-traumatic carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis * Patients that received a corticosteroid injection during the appointment for treatment of thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Neal Chen, MD — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Neal Chen, MD
- Email: nchen1@partners.org
- Phone: 617-726-4700
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.