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

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.