What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for thumb osteoarthritis include specialized exercise programs, splinting, and joint protection education. The Dynamic Stability (DS) Exercise Program, which focuses on improving joint mechanics and stability, may lead to side effects such as skin reactions from splints and exercise-related pain exacerbations. These side effects are generally nonserious. Other conservative treatments like splinting can sometimes result in discomfort or limited hand function due to prolonged use.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The provided context does not mention specific FDA-approved treatments for thumb osteoarthritis. However, it highlights that rehabilitation, including joint protection and splinting, is recommended as initial treatment. The Dynamic Stability (DS) Exercise Program, which aims to improve joint mechanics and stability, is being studied for its potential benefits in reducing pain and disability in thumb osteoarthritis. This approach focuses on non-invasive, non-pharmacological interventions, which are generally preferred for managing this condition.

What other types of research exist?

Promising novel alternatives to the Dynamic Stability (DS) Exercise Program for thumb osteoarthritis patients include: 1) Specialized exercise regimens focusing on eccentric and isometric strengthening, 2) Use of real-time sonography to guide and assess exercise effectiveness, and 3) Advanced splinting techniques designed to reduce joint stress and improve alignment. These alternatives aim to enhance joint mechanics and stability, similar to the DS program.

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Dynamic Stability Exercises for Thumb Arthritis

Phase 2

Waitlist Available

Led By Corey McGee

Research Sponsored by University of Minnesota

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

adults with radiographically-confirmed thumb CMC OA

Be older than 18 years old

Must not have

cognitive disorders which would preclude a client from following the testing commands and home program participation

pain which precludes participants from completing testing

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up baseline

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial tests a special set of exercises designed to help people with severe thumb arthritis. The exercises aim to make the thumb joint more stable and aligned, which can reduce pain and improve hand function. The study will also compare ultrasound imaging to CAT scans to see if it can accurately measure changes in the thumb joint.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for adults with confirmed thumb CMC osteoarthritis who haven't had hand rehab in the last 6 months. It's not for those with severe arthritis, recent cortisone treatments, joint replacements, inflammatory arthritis, or conditions like Marfan's or Ehlers Danlos Syndrome.

What is being tested?

The study tests a dynamic stability exercise program against standard care to see if it improves thumb alignment and function in people with thumb CMC OA. Participants will have CAT scans before and after an 8-week exercise program to measure changes.

What are the potential side effects?

Since this trial involves physical exercises rather than medication, side effects may include muscle soreness or strain. However, these are typically mild and temporary as the body adjusts to new activities.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

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I have been diagnosed with thumb arthritis through imaging tests.

Exclusion Criteria

You may be eligible for the trial if you check “No” for criteria below:

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I can follow instructions and participate in home programs.

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My pain stops me from completing certain tests.

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I do not speak English.

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My arthritis is at the most severe stage.

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I have had my thumb's CMC joint replaced.

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I have inflammatory arthritis.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ 9 weeks post intervention

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~9 weeks post intervention

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and 9 weeks post intervention for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Subluxation of thumb carpometacarpal joint as per CAT scan

Sonography, Speech

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Dynamic Stability Exercise ProgramExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Involves four 60-minute occupational therapy visits as well as a daily home program across a 8-week period. Clinic visits focus primarily on home program coaching, and progression of the exercise regimen. Home programs involve daily exercises which follow the intensity and duration recommended for older adults. The intervention focuses on enhancing mobility and strength of the thumb for use during daily activities.

0 / 7Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Common treatments for thumb osteoarthritis include joint protection techniques, splinting, and specialized exercise programs like the Dynamic Stability (DS) Exercise Program. The DS Exercise Program aims to improve joint mechanics and stability by strengthening the muscles around the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, thereby reducing joint misalignment and pain. This is achieved through targeted exercises that enhance the dynamic stability of the joint, which can help in maintaining proper joint function and reducing the progression of OA. For patients, this means potentially less pain, improved hand function, and a better quality of life.