Night-time immobilization of the distal interphalangeal joint reduces pain and extension deformity in hand osteoarthritis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

DIP joint OA is common but has few cost-effective, evidence-based interventions. Pain and deformity [radial or ulnar deviation of the joint or loss of full extension (extension lag)] frequently lead to functional and cosmetic issues. We investigated whether splinting the DIP joint would improve pain, function and deformity.

Methods

A prospective, radiologist-blinded, non-randomized, internally controlled trial of custom splinting of the DIP joint was carried out. Twenty-six subjects with painful, deforming DIP joint hand OA gave written, informed consent. One intervention joint and one control joint were nominated. A custom gutter splint was worn nightly for 3 months on the intervention joint, with clinical and radiological assessment at baseline, 3 and 6 months. D

SUBMITTER: Watt FE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4023558 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature