CompletedNot Applicable

A Soft Robotics Approach Towards Finger Joint Deformities in Rheumatic Diseases

Singapore8 participantsStarted 2017-10-27

Plain-language summary

The study is to investigate the effect of a soft robotic glove approach providing continuous passive motion of fingers (flexion and extension) on degenerative arthritis patients. The approach may help reduce pain, maintain mobility and flexibility and to improve hand function.

Who can participate

Age range

30 Years – 90 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion criteria

. Aged 30-90 years regardless of race
. Osteoarthritis of the hand (Consistent with ACR criteria 1990)
. Ability to pay attention and maintain supported sitting for 45 mins continuously
. Able to give own consent
. Able to comprehend and follow commands (Abbreviated Mental Test \>= 7)

Exclusion criteria

. Inflammatory arthritis (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis), trigger fingers, carpal tunnel syndrome (by symptoms), finger contractures
. Recent steroid injections in the wrist/hand joints within the past 3 months
. Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or oral steroid) in the past 1 month
. Old stroke and/or spasticity affecting the upper limbs
. Epilepsy for the last 6 months as of the date of recruitment
. Poor skin conditions which would hamper donning robotic gloves

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Change in fingers' Total Active Motion

Timeframe: Week 1 baseline assessment and Week 11 post intervention assessment

Change in grip and pinch strength

Timeframe: Week 1 baseline assessment and Week 11 post intervention assessment

Trial details

NCT IDNCT03326817

SponsorNational University Hospital, Singapore

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2018-03-14

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Osteoarthritis trials