Investigating the Effect of Colditz Orthosis in the Treatment of Basilar Joint Arthrosis: A Review Article

ABSTRACT Introduction Basilar joint arthrosis, commonly known as osteoarthritis (OA) of the thumb, is a degenerative and multifactorial condition. It is prevalent among individuals aged 50–60, with a higher incidence observed in postmenopausal women. Radiographic studies have revealed a significant prevalence of basilar joint arthrosis in individuals over 60, impacting a substantial portion of the population and affecting their ability to perform daily activities. The economic burden of basilar joint arthrosis is considerable, highlighting the need for effective treatment. This review aimed to investigate the effect of Colditz orthosis in individuals with basilar joint arthrosis on the outcomes of pain, hand function, grip, and pinch strength. Methods This review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies (cohort, cross-sectional, and case-control) evaluating Colditz orthosis for treating basilar joint arthrosis. A structured keyword strategy that includes terms such as “osteoarthritis,” “basilar joint osteoarthritis,” and “orthoses” was applied in a thorough search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINAHL up to the end of March 2025. Thirteen relevant articles were selected following accurate inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data synthesis aimed to assess the effectiveness of Colditz orthosis in managing basilar joint arthrosis. Results Pain reduction was consistently observed across studies, with initial pain levels averaging 4.75 on the visual analog scale (VAS) before orthosis use, decreasing to 3.41 posttreatment. Various questionnaires, including SOLERMAN, AUSCAN, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), and Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ), assessed performance and hand function, showing improved scores following orthosis use. Grip strength increased from an average of 14.84 kg to 16.93 kg, and pinch strength improved from 4.38 kg to 4.61 kg. These outcomes suggest that orthosis interventions reduce pain, enhance functional performance, and improve strength parameters in patients with basilar joint osteoarthritis. Conclusions The Colditz orthosis is a promising conservative treatment for basilar joint arthrosis. It has the potential to improve pain, functionality, and overall patient outcomes. The article emphasizes the need for further research to establish the orthosis’s long-term effectiveness. Clinical Relevance The review article highlights the effectiveness of the Colditz orthosis in treating basilar joint arthrosis, providing clinicians with valuable insights into managing this prevalent musculoskeletal disorder.