Current practice patterns in conservative thumb CMC joint care: survey results.
METHODS
Cross-sectional descriptive survey


BACKGROUND
Best practice for conservative clinical care pathways is not well outlined in the literature for patients with thumb carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) pain. This self-report survey investigated the current practice patterns of assessments and conservative interventions for the painful thumb CMCJ among hand therapists.


METHODS
An online survey was distributed to members of the American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT). Questions were included about evaluation measures and intervention techniques used for this population. A descriptive analysis was completed of the results.


RESULTS
A total of 23.5% of the ASHT membership responded to the survey. Results were categorized using the International Classification of Functioning and Disability domains as a framework. The survey results report varying use of evaluation measures, therapeutic interventions, including orthotic fabrication, joint protection and patient education all therapeutic interventional techniques, and modalities.


CONCLUSIONS
Therapists use a comprehensive array of evaluation measures and interventions for body functions and structures in the care of thumb CMC pain. In contrast, more consistent use is needed of psychometrically-sound functional outcome measures that show change in activities and participation. This survey highlights areas to employ current evidence, as well as, future research should address environmental factors and personal factors for this population


METHODS
Not applicable.
University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview, Fairview Hand Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA. Electronic address: vobrienotd@gmail.com.
Virginia H
VH
O'Brien
Washington University School of Medicine, Program in OT, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Jamie L
JL
McGaha
D018771:Arthralgia / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D052737:Carpometacarpal Joints / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D009989:Orthotic Devices / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010232:Paraffin; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010358:Patient Participation; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D026761:Physical Therapy Specialty; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013933:Thumb / Q000503:physiopathology*; D014481:United States
D010232:Paraffin
Carpometacarpal; Conservative management; Exercise; Intervention; Joint; Modalities; Orthoses; Orthosis; Practice pattern survey; Survey; Therapy; Thumb