Compression gloves for patients with hand arthritis (C-GLOVES): A feasibility study

Introduction Compression gloves are frequently provided to patients with hand arthritis. Evidence for effectiveness is limited. The aim of this study was determine feasibility recruitment, assessment and treatment procedures, in preparation a future compression glove trial. Methods A non-randomised out-patients either undifferentiated inflammatory arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, moderate severe pain. All received Isotoner™ by rheumatology occupational therapists. main outcomes were trial outcome selection sample size calculation. Participants assessed at baseline four weeks. Assessments included: numeric rating scales (0–10) pain (on activity, rest, night) stiffness; joint swelling; finger flexion; function (Grip Ability Test). Results Of 318 screened, 86/204 (42%) 68/114 (60%) osteoarthritis eligible. these, 41 (48%: age: 59.10 (SD 12.54) years) 32 (47%: 60.75 8.64) respectively, consented. completed four-week follow-up. Assessment protocols feasible. Hand on activity night, stiffness, swelling, flexion improved: e.g. activity: change = ?0.95 2.26; p 0.01); ?1.57 1.78; 0.001). reported improved pain, stiffness as benefits. Conclusion Procedures tested most relevant primary activity. Future trials would need 161 participants (Inflammatory arthritis) 151 (hand osteoarthritis). Trial registration: Clinical Trials.Gov: NCT01874067