Purpose: Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis (TMC-OA) is a prevalent hａnd disorder affecting a growing number of people worldwide. While a multidisciplinary approach might provide additional advantages, the analgesic and anti-inflammatory role of intra-articular oxygen-ozone (O₂O₃) injections combined with physical therapy is still unknown. To assess the impact of a multimodal therapeutic approach combining O₂O₃ injections with physical therapy in patients with TMC-OA.

Materials and methods: A prospective open-label study conducted in the Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Unit of the Renato Dulbecco University Hospital of Catanzaro. We assessed patients with TMC-OA who had not responded to standard medical therapy. Participants received O₂O₃ therapy and targeted physical therapy for 4?weeks. Pain relief, muscle strength, and physical functioning were assessed at baseline and after 4, 12 and 24?weeks (respectively T0, T1, T2, and T3).

Results: Seventeen patients with a mean age of 67.1?±?6.1?years were included in the study. Short-term improvements in pain intensity were o9plerved (T0: 6.221?±?1.514; T1: 3.172?±?1.1451; p p: 0.006). Significant changes were reported also in terms of muscle strength and physical functioning. O₂O₃ therapy was well-tolerated with no adverse effects.

Conclusions: A combination of O₂O₃ injections and physical therapy might be considered in patients with TMC-OA. Further investigation is warranted to assess the effectiveness of O₂O₃ therapy in managing TMC-OA.