Effect of Ulnar-Based Orthotics and Strengthening Exercises on Subjects With Ulnar Wrist Pain

Abstract

Context: In comparison with the published research on the surgical management of ulnar wrist pain, fewer studies that discuss the nonsurgical management of ulnar wrist pain exist. Objective: The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate the effect of ulnar-based wrist orthotics and strengthening exercises on subjects with ulnar wrist pain. Study Design: Prospective randomized controlled pilot study. Setting: Research laboratory. Participants: Thirty subjects with acute and subacute ulnar wrist pain and age ranging from 18 to 53. Interventions: Participants were randomized to receive either ulnar-based orthotics, ulnar-based orthotics plus strengthening exercises, or placebo intervention. Main Outcome Measures: The authors measured pain and function using the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation questionnaire, and grip strength using the JAMAR dynamometer, at baseline and at 2- and 4-week postrandomization. A mixed analysis of variance modeling was used to investigate the effect of the intervention over time. Results: There were statistically significant differences between the 2 intervention groups and the control group regarding improvement in pain, function, and strength, whereas there were no statistically significant differences between the 2 intervention groups over the 3 measurement occasions regarding the outcome measures. Conclusion: Based on the results, orthotics intervention is as effective as orthotics plus strengthening exercises in improving pain, function, and grip strength in subjects with ulnar wrist pain. Level of Evidence: Therapy, level 2b individual Randomized Controlled Trial.