Investigation of the effects of a short opponens splint and structured hand exercise program in computer engineers with wrist pain: a randomized controlled trial


Demirci F. S., MENEK B., ATILGAN E., TARAKCI D.

International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, cilt.30, sa.1, ss.185-193, 2024 (SSCI) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 30 Sayı: 1
  • Basım Tarihi: 2024
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1080/10803548.2023.2284516
  • Dergi Adı: International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, PASCAL, CINAHL, EMBASE, INSPEC, MEDLINE, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.185-193
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: computer engineer, exercise, short opponens splint, work-related pain
  • İstanbul Medipol Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Objectives. This study aimed to examine the effects of a short opponens splint and hand exercise program on pain, hand functionality, daily activities, and work efficacy in computer engineers with wrist pain. Methods. Forty-five engineers were randomized into three groups: group 1 (n = 15) utilized both splints and exercises, group 2 (n = 15) engaged in exercises only and group 3 (n = 15) received no treatment, across 8 weeks, thrice weekly. Only exercises were applied to group 2 (n = 15). No treatment was applied for group 3 (n = 15). The progress of subjects was controlled periodically each week. Outcome measurements including the Jamar hand dynamometer, pinchmeter, nine-hole peg test (9-NHPT), visual analog scale, Boston carpal tunnel syndrome questionnaire and Michigan hand outcome questionnaire (MHQ) were evaluated pre and post treatment during the study period. Results. Comparing the outcome measurements of the three groups showed a statistically significant difference between them except for the 9-NHPT and MHQ pain and esthetics (p < 0.05). According to post-hoc tests, groups 1 and 2 had more significant differences than group 3. Also, there was no statistically significant difference in any parameter between group 1 and group 2 (p > 0.017). Conclusion. Non-restrictive minimal orthosis or exercise programs are advisable for individuals with wrist pain.