Differences in orthotic design for thumb osteoarthritis and its impact on functional outcomes: A scoping review.
BACKGROUND
Orthoses are a well-known intervention for the treatment of thumb osteoarthritis; however, there is a multitude of orthotic designs and not enough evidence to support the efficacy of specific models.


OBJECTIVE
To examine the influence of different orthoses on pain, hand strength, and hand function of patients with thumb osteoarthritis.


METHODS
Literature review.


METHODS
A scoping literature review of 14 publications reporting orthotic interventions for patients with thumb osteoarthritis was conducted. Functional outcomes and measures were extracted and analyzed.


RESULTS
In total, 12 studies reported improvements in pain and hand strength after the use of thumb orthoses. Comparisons between different orthotic designs were inconclusive.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of orthoses can decrease pain and improve hand function of patients with thumb osteoarthritis; however, the effectiveness of different orthoses still needs support through adequate evidence. Clinical relevance Multiple orthoses for thumb osteoarthritis are available. Although current studies support their use to improve pain and hand function, there is no evidence to support the efficacy of specific orthotic designs. Improved functional outcomes can be achieved through the use of short orthoses, providing thumb stabilization without immobilizing adjacent joints.
1 Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
Pedro Henrique Tq
PHT
de Almeida
2 McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
Joy
J
MacDermid
1 Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
Tatiana Barcelos
TB
Pontes
1 Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
Clarissa Cardoso
CC
Dos Santos-Couto-Paz
1 Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
João Paulo Chieregato
JPC
Matheus
D052737:Carpometacarpal Joints; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000628:therapy*; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D020127:Recovery of Function; D013933:Thumb; D016896:Treatment Outcome
Orthotics; osteoarthritis; thumb; upper limb