Overview
The aim of this study is to assess whether the use of a commercially available nutraceutical, turmeric, is an effective option to manage pain and stiffness in patients with basal joint arthritis. To conduct a pilot Randomized Controlled Trial evaluating the impact of turmeric on basal joint arthritis.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- 40 years of age or older
- English fluency and literacy
- Seeking care for basal joint pain
- Tender over basal joint
- Positive distraction rotation test (rotation of the thumb metacarpal base while applying axial traction)
- Radiographic evidence of Eaton stage 1 and 2 only
Exclusion Criteria:
- Secondary gains (litigations or worker compensation) procedures that may interfere with patients' motivation for treatment
- Inability or unwillingness to participate in a trial study
- Rheumatoid Arthritis or other inflammatory disorder diagnoses
- Post-traumatic osteoarthritis
- Patients on Coumadin/Steroids/NSAIDs/Tylenol
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Pregnant or lactating women
- Basal joint arthritis of Eaton stage 3
- Patients seeking other treatment for their basal joint arthritis (splint, corticosteroid injection, surgery)