What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the HANDY program version 2.0, a cross-sectorial management program designed for people living with hand osteoarthritis (HOA). The study is a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to test the feasibility, recruitment, retention, and acceptability of this occupational therapy intervention. The program aims to improve the ability to perform daily activities that are often impaired by HOA, such as dressing, eating, and cooking. This pilot study builds on a previous feasibility study and incorporates stakeholder input to refine the program before a full-scale RCT. The HANDY program includes an organizational part where general practitioners (GPs) evaluate the need for occupational therapy referral based on hand function and daily activity challenges. The occupational therapy intervention consists of six 120-minute sessions combining individual and group activities focused on compensatory strategies like energy conservation, assistive devices, and goal setting. Participants receive one individual home session at the start and end to assess and evaluate their daily activity abilities and four group sessions involving peer learning and strategy training. Participants with HOA will be assessed for eligibility and referred by their GP. During the study, they will complete self-reported and observed measures of daily activity ability, goal attainment, and quality of life at baseline and after the intervention. Researchers will also collect data on recruitment, retention, intervention acceptability, and mechanisms of action through registration forms, diaries, and focus group interviews. The study runs from January to June 2025 and includes follow-up assessments to inform a future larger trial.

Cross-sectorial Management Program for People Living with Hand Osteoarthritis: a Randomised Controlled Pilot and Feasibility Study