Thumb arthritis study tests PRP vs steroids – but ends early

NCT ID NCT03196310

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: Kettering Health Network Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study looked at three treatments for thumb base arthritis: a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection, a corticosteroid (Kenalog) injection, or a placebo (saline) injection. The goal was to see which best improved hand function and pain. The trial enrolled 74 people with early-stage thumb arthritis but was terminated early, so results are incomplete.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and corticosteroid (Kenalog)
What this could lead to: If PRP proves effective, it could offer a longer-lasting, natural option for easing thumb arthritis pain without steroids.
What could go wrong: The trial was terminated early, so results are limited. PRP is still experimental for this use, and benefits may not be better than placebo.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE BASAL JOINT are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

osteoarthritis osteoarthritis, hand

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

OSTEOARTHRITIS THUMB

Contacts and locations

Locations

Orthopedic Associates of Southwest Ohio

Centerville, Ohio, 45459, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.