Self Management in Hand Osteoarthritis: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Author Information
Author(s): Krysia S. Dziedzic, Susan Hill, Elaine Nicholls, Alison Hammond, Helen Myers, Tracy Whitehurst, Jo Bailey, Charlotte Clements, David G.T. Whitehurst, Sue Jowett, June Handy, Rhian W. Hughes, Elaine Thomas, Elaine M. Hay
Primary Institution: Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Keele University
Hypothesis
Is joint protection delivered by an OT more effective in reducing hand pain and disability than no joint protection in people with hand OA in primary care?
Conclusion
The study aims to improve the cost-effective evidence-based management of hand osteoarthritis.
Supporting Evidence
- Joint protection and hand exercises are core components of occupational therapy.
- Participants reported significant hand pain and disability affecting their everyday lives.
- Only 3% of those with severe disability reported seeing an occupational therapist in the last year.
Takeaway
This study is trying to find out if helping people with hand arthritis by teaching them how to protect their joints and do exercises can make their hands feel better.
Methodology
This is a multicentre two-by-two factorial randomised controlled trial involving participants aged 50 and over, who will be randomised into four groups to receive different interventions.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from the self-reported nature of participant data and the randomisation process.
Limitations
The study may have limitations related to participant dropout and the generalizability of findings to other populations.
Participant Demographics
Participants will be aged 50 years and over, registered at general practices in North Staffordshire and Cheshire.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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