BJI Researchers look to affect those with Thumb Arthritis
Researchers at Western University are developing an innovative system that combines smartphone-based hand scanning and 3D printing to create custom thumb splints for people living with thumb arthritis. Led by physical therapy professor Dr. Joy MacDermid, the project addresses one of the most common forms of arthritis, which affects the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb and can cause significant pain, stiffness and loss of function. Using digital scans captured remotely, clinicians can design and manufacture personalized splints without requiring patients to travel to specialist hand clinics, making treatment more accessible for people who live in rural, remote or underserved communities.
The research is now evaluating how these remotely designed 3D-printed splints compare with traditional therapist-made splints in terms of pain relief, comfort, hand function and patient satisfaction. Early results suggest that patients appreciate the lighter, more breathable and customizable design of the printed splints. In interviews about the project, Dr. MacDermid emphasized that the work began with a clinical need to better support individuals with thumb arthritis, while also overcoming barriers to care caused by geography and limited access to specialists. The long-term goal is to create a scalable model of care that could allow patients to receive high-quality, customized treatment closer to home and potentially expand access to hand therapy services across Canada.
Western News (Colleen MacDonald)
AM980 News Interview (Mike Stubbs)
