Corticosteroids vs Saline for Thumb Arthritis
(CASITOA Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores treatments for thumb osteoarthritis, a condition that causes pain and limits thumb movement. Researchers aim to determine if saline injections are as effective as the usual corticosteroid injections (specifically, Triamcinolone Acetonide) in relieving pain and improving hand function. Participants will receive either a saline or corticosteroid injection without knowing which one they receive. The study seeks individuals with thumb pain due to osteoarthritis who have been advised by a doctor that an injection could help. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to important findings.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that steroid injections, such as triamcinolone acetonide, ease joint pain, including in the thumb. One study found these injections can provide short-term pain relief, lasting from a few weeks to a few months. However, some people might experience side effects like higher blood sugar levels and mild pain or swelling at the injection site.
Saline injections, often used as a placebo (inactive treatment) in studies, are usually considered harmless. Recent research suggests they might actually help reduce pain in some cases, though this is still under investigation. Since saline is essentially saltwater, it is generally seen as very safe with minimal risk of side effects.
In summary, both treatments are generally well-tolerated. Steroid injections might cause temporary side effects, while saline is viewed as a low-risk option. These insights might help prospective trial participants weigh the potential risks and benefits of each treatment.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for thumb arthritis because they offer different approaches to managing pain and inflammation. The corticosteroid injection, using Triamcinolone Acetonide, is a standard treatment, known for its quick action in reducing inflammation and offering relief. On the other hand, the saline solution injection, while traditionally not considered active treatment, is being explored for its potential placebo effect and minimal side effects. This comparison could reveal new insights into how much of the relief from injections is due to the active ingredient versus the act of injection itself.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for thumb arthritis?
This trial will compare the effects of corticosteroid injections with saline injections for thumb osteoarthritis (TMO). Research has shown that corticosteroid injections, such as triamcinolone acetonide, can temporarily relieve TMO pain. Some studies found that these injections reduce pain and improve thumb movement, but the relief may not last long, and repeated use can cause side effects like tissue damage. Meanwhile, recent research suggests that saline injections, which participants in this trial may receive, might also relieve pain. Although traditionally considered inactive, some evidence indicates saline might have a therapeutic effect, possibly due to physical changes or the placebo effect. This suggests saline could be a safer and more affordable option than corticosteroids for TMO.
Who Is on the Research Team?
Tokiko Hamasaki, PhD
Principal Investigator
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
The CASITOA trial is for people with thumb arthritis confirmed by X-ray, experiencing pain at the thumb base. Candidates should be considered suitable for corticosteroid injections over surgery and must understand French or English.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive a single injection of either corticosteroids or saline solution
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Data Collection and Analysis
Data on pain intensity, functional limitations, and adverse events are collected and analyzed
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Saline Solution Injection
- Triamcinolone Acetonide
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
Lead Sponsor
Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal
Collaborator
Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Geriatrie de Montreal
Collaborator
McGill University
Collaborator
Université de Sherbrooke
Collaborator
Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM)
Collaborator
Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke
Collaborator
Les Cliniques MSK
Collaborator
Université de Montréal
Collaborator