Article
New technologies in thumb base osteoarthritis: case report
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Published: | February 6, 2020 |
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Objectives/Interrogation: To evaluate the effectiveness of an app to implement a postsurgery exercise program.
Methods: We present 60 years-old woman with thumb base osteoarthritis. A trapezium exeresis and tenosuspension ligamentoplasty with FCR was performed using a modified Burton Pellegrini technique. After cast removal, surgery service provided access to an app with an individualized home exercise program. The objective of the program was to promote dynamic joint stability and rehabilitate muscles that reduce dorsoradial subluxation and instability through conscious neuromuscular training. At one week, 3 weeks and 3 months postsurgery, manual dexterity through Nine Hole Peg Test, functionality through QuickDash and grip and pinch strength and were evaluated. The app developed control motor oriented exercises that can be adapted to pain and range of motion.
Results: The patient showed improvement in all the measures. Baseline measures were: 45,65 seconds in Nine Hole Peg Test, 10 pounds in grip strength, 1 pound in pinch strength and 79,54 points in QuickDash. After 3 weeks the patient measures were 21,73 seconds in Nine Hole Peg Test, 15 pounds in grip strength, 2 pound in pinch strength and 75 points in QuickDash. Finally, at three months: 19,05 seconds in Nine Hole Peg Test, 25 pounds in grip strength, 4 pound in pinch strength and 63,63 points in QuickDash. Difference from baseline to 3 month measures were: -26,6 seconds in Nine Hole Peg Test, +15 pounds in grip strength, +3 pound in pinch strength and -15,91 points in QuickDash. Patient completed the program with a 76% of adherence and report using the app as an enjoyable and easy way to develop exercises.
Conclusions: Apps seems to be an optimal format for sensorimotor approach in postsurgery process. These results suggests the suitability of a tablet app for postsurgery exercise program in thumb base osteoarthritis.