Usability of thenar eminence orthoses: report of a comparative study.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the difference in the usability of three types of thenar eminence (TE) orthoses.


METHODS
Prospective comparative pre-experimental study with randomized cross-over design.


METHODS
Rehabilitation centre.


METHODS
Ten patients with osteoarthritis of the carpometacarpal I joint confirmed by X-ray.


METHODS
Three types of TE orthoses, made of either supple elastic material, elastic material with a semi-rigid thumb busk or a semi-rigid (polyethylene) material.


METHODS
Pain at the thenar eminence, pinch force, hand function, cosmesis, comfort and function of the TE orthosis.


RESULTS
The supple elastic TE orthosis scores significantly better than the more rigid types on the subjects 'comfort', 'function' and the Green Test, while the semi-rigid orthosis scores best on 'cosmesis'. The score on the subject 'pain reduction' shows no significant difference between the three types of TE orthoses. The scores obtained correspond with the outcome of structured interviews about the usability of the TE orthoses.


CONCLUSIONS
Eight out of 10 patients prefer the permanent use of a TE orthosis. Six patients chose the supple elastic orthosis and two chose the semi-rigid orthosis.
Buurke
J H
JH
Roessingh Research and Development, Enschede, The Netherlands.
Grady
J H
JH
de Vries
J
J
Baten
C T
CT
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013933:Thumb