NCT07217405 · Mayo Clinic
Radiotherapy Compared to Corticosteroid Injection for Treatment of Hand Osteoarthritis
What this study is about
The purpose of this research is to compare low-dose radiotherapy to corticosteroid injection for treatment of hand/wrist osteoarthritis.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this research is to compare low-dose radiotherapy to corticosteroid injection for treatment of hand/wrist osteoarthritis.
Interventions
DRUG
Corticosteroid injection (CSI)
A maximum of 3 joints will be treated with standard a standard combination of methylprednisolone and lidocaine: * 1st Carpometacarpal (CMC) joint - 20 mg methylprednisolone/0.5 mL 1% lidocaine\* * Radiocarpal (RC) joint - 40 mg methylprednisolone/1 mL 1% lidocaine\* * Scaphotrapeziotrapezoidal (STT) joint - 20 mg methylprednisolone/0.5 mL 1% lidocaine\* * Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint - 20 mg methylprednisolone/0.5 mL 1% lidocaine * Interphalangeal (IP) joint - 10 mg methylprednisolone/0.25 mL 1% lidocaine
RADIATION
Low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT)
Subjects will be treated with low-dose radiotherapy of 300cGy in 6 fractions, 2-3 times per week on non-consecutive days. Non-responders to the initial LDRT treatment will receive a second treatment course of 300cGy in 6 fractions to be given 2-3 times per week on non-consecutive days.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score
Time frame: Baseline, monthly for 6 months post-intervention, 9 months post-intervention, 12 months post-intervention
Pain values reported by participants will be assessed using the 100-mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The VAS line will be 100 mm long with no intermediate delineations. Each end will be marked with "no pain" on the left, and "worst possible pain" on the right. Participants will identify their pain level by indicating a point on the line between each end. That point will be measured from the "No pain" end, and the number of millimeters will be reported as the pain score.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patient at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Age 50 years or older
- Mild, moderate, or severe hand OA (Kellgren and Lawrence classification grade 2, 3, or 4) on hand radiographs within the last 24 months
- Hand OA pain with a minimum VAS score relating to hand pain of ≥40 (on a 100-point scale) when using the affected hand
- Ability to complete study questionnaires
Exclusion criteria
- History of previous surgery to the affected hand(s)
- Autoimmune joint disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis
- Active confounding hand condition such as stenosing tenosynovitis or Dupuytren's contracture
- Recent injury (within last 1 month) to the affected hand causing current pain
- History of crystalline arthritis (gout or pseudogout) flare in the affected hand(s)
- Active use of opioid pain medication(s) or oral steroids within the last 3 months
- Fibromyalgia or central sensitization syndrome
- Hand CSI or other hand injection within the past 3 months
- History of hand LDRT within the past 3 months
- Poorly controlled diabetes (HbA1c \> 10%)
- Active infection
- Current pregnancy
Where
- Rochester, Minnesota
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations