This interventional clinical study investigates the effectiveness of applying a forearm strap orthosis in 30 individuals experiencing forearm pain due to playing a musical instrument. Participants used the orthosis for 4 weeks. The primary objective is to evaluate the changes in pain levels and grip strength following this period. The study also explores the potential of this intervention to improve functionality and quality of life.
The therapeutic and biomechanical effects of orthoses are utilized in the management of musculoskeletal disorders frequently encountered in instrumental musicians; this interventional study aims to prospectively evaluate the effect of a standardized forearm strap orthosis intervention on pain intensity, grip strength, and upper extremity functionality after a 4-week usage period in instrumental musicians. The study employs an Interventional type, single-group assignment, non-randomized pre-post design, enrolling 30 individuals from the Sulukule Art Academy of Fatih Municipality who meet the inclusion criteria. The primary outcome measures are the McGill Melzack Pain Questionnaire and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, grip strength values measured with the Jamar dynamometer, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH-T) Questionnaire scores, all obtained pre- and post- orthosis use. The secondary outcome measure is the evaluation of quality of life using the Short Form 36 (SF-36) Quality of Life Survey.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
30
The Forearm Band Orthosis was applied and used by participants for 4 weeks during instrumental music playing sessions and daily activities. The orthosis aimed to provide counterforce to the muscle tendon unit to reduce tension at the epicondyle and alleviate pain associated with repetitive strain.
Medipol University
Istanbul, Beykoz, Turkey (Türkiye)
Change from Baseline in Pain Intensity as Measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS)
The VAS was a valid measure that recorded participants' perceived pain intensity. A decrease in the VAS score was evaluated. VAS ranges from a minimum of 0 (no pain) to a maximum of 10 (the most severe pain imaginable); higher scores indicate worse (more severe) pain.
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks
Change from Baseline in Pain Experience Measured by the McGill Melzack Pain Questionnaire Score (MPQ-PRI)
It was a questionnaire that measured the sensory, emotional, and evaluative aspects of pain. The decrease in the score was evaluated. The MPQ-PRI ranges from a minimum of 0 (no pain) to a maximum of 78 (the most severe and comprehensive pain); higher scores indicate a worse and more multidimensional pain experience.
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks
Change from Baseline in Isometric Grip Strength using Jamar Dynamometer
The maximum isometric grip strength of the affected hand was measured using the Jamar Dynamometer device.
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks
Change from Baseline in Upper Extremity Functional Status using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH-T) Score
It was a standardized questionnaire that measured upper extremity disability and its symptoms. A decrease in the DASH-T score (increased functionality) was evaluated.
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks
Change from Baseline in Quality of Life (SF-36)
It was a survey that assessed the physical and mental components of quality of life. The increase in the SF-36 score was evaluated. The scores obtained from the form range from a minimum of 0 (poorest mental health and function) to a maximum of 100 (best function); higher scores indicate better physical and mental health and functioning.
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Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks