ARHP News: Occupational and Hand Therapy in Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Carole V. Dodge, OT, CHT

The Simple Tasks bent fork lapel pin.

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hand is one of the more frequent diagnoses seen in a hand clinic. The carpometacarpal (CMC) joint of the thumb and small joints of the digits are most commonly involved. Risk factors are highest for postmenopausal women, individuals with a history of hand trauma, and those who have performed repetitive grasp and pinch activities over an extended period.

Typically, patients complain of pain with functional activities such as turning a doorknob or key, opening jars, and manipulating fasteners on clothing. Pain is classically located at the base of the thumb (CMC joint) and is accentuated with all activities requiring grip and pinch. Symptoms occur as the CMC joint becomes unstable secondary to laxity and biomechanical changes of the joint. Progressive instability of the CMC results in metacarpal subluxation volarly off the trapezium, causing the thumb to rest in an adducted position of comfort. This limits the ability to abduct the thumb as needed to grasp large objects. If present, Heberden’s and Bouchard’s nodes located at the distal intraphalangeal and proximal intraphalangeal joints respectively contribute to pain, and limit composite grasp and manipulation of small objects.

Early referral to an occupational therapist can improve hand function in patients with OA. A conservative approach is generally used for successful management of OA symptoms. Treatment goals include: pain management, rest through joint immobilization (splinting), and activity modification that incorporates joint protection techniques. Occupational therapists utilize a combination of modalities, exercises, and activities of daily living to achieve patient treatment goals.

Individuals are taught self-help techniques to manage pain. Many patients that who unable to tolerate or are resistant to additional OA medications may benefit from the use of thermomodalites for heat and cold. Hot packs, paraffin baths, and ice are used as adjuncts in making the patient more comfortable. Effects are temporary, but can be repeated as desired for maximum effectiveness.

Splints are used for rest and/or to stabilize the CMC joint during activity. Thermoplastic immobilizing splints rest the joint and are frequently worn at night to decrease pain, inflammation, and swelling. Neoprene splints are often preferred by patients to provide joint stability while allowing functional activities to be performed during the day. A combination of splints is useful because an individual’s pain and activity levels vary day to day. Referral to an occupational therapist will improve the likelihood that the optimal splint is fabricated and fitted to the patient’s needs.