Occupational Rhizarthrosis Treated Surgically: Effects on Work Performance

Osteoarthritis of the trapeziometacarpal joint (rhizarthrosis) is one of the most frequent causes of hand dysfunction. Its significant impact on daily activities and work tasks is evident. This clinical condition is more commonly associated with older age, predominantly affects females, and is often linked to repetitive movements and heavy manual labor. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on the prevention and early intervention of this pathology to minimize its impact not only on worker's health but also on their professional performance. This article aims to critically examine the association between rhizarthrosis, namely the pain with these conditions and its influence on work capacity.

An epidemiological survey was conducted on active workers diagnosed with symptomatic rhizarthrosis who underwent surgical treatment. Data collected included gender, age, dominant hand, labor intensity scale, radiological classification of rhizarthrosis, patient-reported pain classification, and work capacity before and after surgical intervention.

In this study, there was a higher prevalence among females and older individuals. More advanced radiological classifications of rhizarthrosis did not correlate with more advanced pain classifications; however, statistically significant differences were found in higher work disability. Jobs requiring higher labor intensity and greater hand use were significantly associated with higher pain levels, increased work disability, and elevated radiological classifications of rhizarthrosis according to the Eaton and Littler scale.

Patients with rhizarthrosis surgically treated showed a statistically significant reduction in reported pain on the analog scale, as well as greater work capacity after surgical intervention, thus contributing to better professional performance.