The effect of custom-made splints in patients with the first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis

Background: Pain, reduced grip strength, loss of range of motion, and joint stiffness, leading to impaired hand function, and difficulty with daily activities are documented symptoms of first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis. Splinting is a common type of conservative treatment for this injury. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of custom-made thumb splints on pain, function, grip strength, and key pinch in patients with first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis. Study Design: Quasi experimental. Methods: Patients with first carpometacarpal grade I and II osteoarthritis (n = 18) participated in a repeated measure study. The patients all wore custom-made thumb splints. All parameters were measured at baseline, and also after 30, 60, and 90 days from initial supply. A visual analogue scale, along with a disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand questionnaire, a dynamometer and pinch gauge were used to assess pain, function, grip strength, and pinch, respectively. Results: After 60 days of splint usage, grip strength was improved. However, a reduction in pain was demonstrated after only 30 days and this continued to improve with time. Function and pinch strength also increased significantly and continued to do so during the study period when compared to baseline. Conclusions: The use of a custom-made splint for patients with osteoarthritis of the first carpometacarpal joint produced decreased pain and increased grip strength, pinch strength, and hand function.