Results:
The TOPS Study

About OA

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the leading cause of joint pain and disability in older adults.

Hand OA is more common than hip or knee OA.

This study investigated OA at the base of the thumb.

Treatment begins with Supported Self-Management,
teaching people affected with OA to settle their pain and avoid aggravating their joints.

Your therapist will assess your hand as part of a standard appointment. They will then discuss the study with you.
If you wish to participate, you will complete a questionnaire (approximately 20 minutes to fill in) and undergo a few assessments ( e.g. grip strength).
You will then start the routine care of supported self-management.
All following appointments are normal care with no additional research elements.
You will receive a questionnaire at 3 months. It will take on average 15 minutes.
Please fill this in as promptly as possible.
You will be able to contact us if you need any help.
This is a repeat of the 3-month process.
This questionnaire is important: it will tell us how your symptoms have changed over a longer time period.
Optional interviews will discuss the experience of care and what factors affect outcomes.
They will take up to an hour and will be by phone, video call, or in person.
We will interview up to 20 people representing different experiences.