Trapeziometacarpal arthritis or rhizarthrosis is extremely frequent. Numerous treatments are available including drugs, physiotherapy, use of orthotic devices, surgery, etc. Few of these methods have been really evaluated. We propose a critical review of the literature on orthotic treatment in rhizarthrosis.
Review of the results of hand splint used in rhizarthrosis from eight studies published over the last ten years.
Resting hand splints offer lasting and significant pain relief with a satisfactory compliance. They should be applied early in treatment and evaluated with regular follow-up. The drop-out rate is about 10%. Working hand splints, either alone or associated with a resting splint are also efficient. These is no modification in either the force or the ranges of motion. The functional benefit is satisfactory if the follow-up allows some tolerance and thus an optimal compliance.
The major interest of the use of splinting is analgesia. The pain releif obtained with splint is similar when used alone or with a working hand splint. Working hand splint can improve hand function during vocational and avocational activities.