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A Conservative Treatment Protocol for Thumb Carpometacarpal Osteoarthritis
Adam Waggener
This capstone project sought to construct a written conservative treatment protocol for thumb CMC OA, emphasizing evidence-based practices. As a hopeful hand therapist, clinical observations led me to realize thumb CMC OA was a common condition present in many cases. A written protocol would be beneficial to both client and practitioner to increase knowledge and awareness of best practice while educating clients as they seek treatment. Initial development of the protocol included communication with current hand therapists to better understand needs of both client and practitioner. Following this, a thorough analysis of current literature was completed for best evidence based practices. Evidence and feedback provided was incorporated together to ensure protocol was meeting needs of both practitioner and clients. Within the protocol, supplemental education was provided to include evidence-based exercises and resources such as a patient handout to improve education of condition and adherence to protocol. Conserving function being a key goal to improve overall long-term outcomes and lessen the likelihood of needing surgery in the future. This protocol provides succinct but thorough information that is universally helpful to both new and experienced therapists and students like myself, seeking to pursue hand therapy in the future. To continue fostering success within the community, more thorough protocol documentation is needed to develop plans of care and protocols, contributing to the success of the OT community at-large.
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