High Intensity Laser Therapy (HL) vs Exercise in Thumb Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the hands and is particularly debilitating when it involves the trapeziometacarpal joint (rhizarthrosis). It causes pain, deformity, limited movement and strength, joint instability, resulting in significant limitations in daily activities.Many conservative treatments, such as medications, therapeutic exercises, physical therapy, and orthoses, are effective for managing hand OA. For patients who do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention will be necessary.
• arthrosis of the trapezoid-metacarpal with stage 1 or 2 of the Eaton-Littler radiographic classification and pain (recent radiograph within 6 months previously);
• clinical picture that has been occurring for at least 6 months;
• pain scored with VAS scale at least 4/10.