NCT05992883 · Mayo Clinic
NSAID Injection Versus Corticosteroid Injection for Basilar Thumb Arthritis
What this study is about
The Researchers are trying to compare two different types of intraarticular injections (injection in the joint) for treating the symptoms of moderate to advanced basilar thumb arthritis. One injection is ketorolac (an NSAID) and the other is triamcinolone (a corticosteroid).
View original scientific description
The Researchers are trying to compare two different types of intraarticular injections (injection in the joint) for treating the symptoms of moderate to advanced basilar thumb arthritis. One injection is ketorolac (an NSAID) and the other is triamcinolone (a corticosteroid).
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
- Adults \>40 years of age
- Pain at the thumb base brought on by direct pressure (grind test) and with movement
- Pain resistant to previous conservative management (including over the counter medications (ibuprofen/acetaminophen), icing, splinting/braces, or topical analgesics)
- Radiological observation indicative of arthritis based on the Eaton-Littler classification system (stages 1 through 4)
- Patient understands the protocol and signed the informed consent
- Patient is covered by health insurance
Exclusion criteria
- • Known allergy to either of the treatment products
- Patient's analgesic treatment regimen or other modalities of managing symptoms/pain associated with their hand pathology was modified within four weeks before trial inclusion
- Symptomatic Scaphoid-trapezial arthritis present
- Localized or systemic infection
- Previous thumb surgery on study thumb
- Previous thumb injury on study thumb
- Patient with inflammatory arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis)
- Severe and/or uncontrolled hypertension
- De Quervain tendinopathy present
- History of injection to the trapeziometacarpal joint on study thumb within the previous 6 weeks
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Pregnant or lactating females. Female participants of childbearing potential must have a negative pregnancy test before the injection. Women without childbearing potential (ie., surgically sterile with hysterectomy and/or bilateral oophorectomy and/or bilateral salpingectomy OR ≥ 12 months of amenorrhea and at least 50 years of age) are eligible to participate without completing a pregnancy test.
- Immunodeficient patients
- Patients that are currently using nicotine products, or who have quit in the last 12 months
- Patients under guardianship, curatorship, or are otherwise not self-sufficient
- Patients participating in another clinical research trial which interferes with this study protocol or outcomes
- Patients unable to follow the protocol in the investigators' judgement.
Where
- Rochester, Minnesota
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 Feb 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations