Study of Thumb Position Sensing in People With Trapeziometacarpal Osteoarthritis Compared to Healthy Adults Examining How Thumb Sensing Relates to Disease Severity, Strength, Sensation, and Emotional Health

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are examining thumb proprioception, which is the ability to sense the position and movement of the thumb, in people with trapeziometacarpal TMC joint osteoarthritis compared to healthy individuals. This observational study aims to compare proprioceptive measurements between those with TMC osteoarthritis at different stages and healthy controls. It also explores how factors like personal characteristics, muscle strength, hand use, pain, touch sensation, and emotional conditions such as anxiety and depression relate to thumb proprioception. Participants include individuals diagnosed with TMC osteoarthritis classified by disease severity using radiographs and a healthy control group. Thumb proprioception is assessed through joint position sense error measurements at the TMC, metacarpophalangeal, and interphalangeal joints, as well as a pinch aperture proprioception test. For a subgroup of participants, the repeatability of the pinch aperture test is checked by repeating it within one week. No treatments are administered as part of this study. During the study visit, participants undergo a single assessment of thumb proprioception along with tests of joint mobility, muscle strength, pain levels, sensory functions, hand performance, and emotional status. Questionnaires about thumb disability, upper extremity function, anxiety, depression, and fear of movement are also completed. The research team monitors comfort during assessments and maintains confidentiality. The total participation involves one visit for measurements and questionnaires, with data analyzed to understand proprioceptive function related to osteoarthritis.

Thumb Proprioception in Trapeziometacarpal Osteoarthritis