Extracorporeal shock wave therapy and ultrasound therapy improve pain and function in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. A randomized controlled trial
M Paoloni, E Tavernese, A Cacchio, V D'orazi, F Ioppolo, M Fini, V Santilli, M Mangone, M Paoloni, E Tavernese, A Cacchio, V D'orazi, F Ioppolo, M Fini, V Santilli, M Mangone
Abstract
Background: Ultrasound (US) therapy improves symptoms in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) uses acoustic energy to determine its clinical effects, as US-therapy does.
Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the short-term efficacy of US and ESWT on mild and moderate CTS.
Study design: Randomized controlled trial.
Setting: University outpatient service.
Population: Twenty-five patients with mild to moderate CTS, for a total of 42 wrists.
Methods: patients were randomized to receive US, cryo-US or ESWT, and were evaluated for pain and function before treatment started, at the end of treatment, and four and 12 weeks after the end of the treatment.
Results: Significant improvement was noted in all groups for pain (P<0.05) and functionality (P<0.05). Patients in ESWT group show greater pain improvement at 12-weeks follow-up when compared with both US and cryo-US groups (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Patients affected by CTS might benefit from the application of US, cryo-US or ESWT. Benefits persist 3 months after the end of treatment.
Clinical rehabil impact: Clinicians might consider the possibility of a short-term non-surgical management for mild-to-moderate CTS.
Source: PubMed