Clinical Characteristics of Neuropathic Pain in Patients With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the clinical characteristics of neuropathic pain in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. We retrospectively reviewed 143 hands in 127 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The neuropathic pain was determined by using the painDETECT as a self-administered psychometric questionnaire to distinguish neuropathic pain. There were no significant differences in the characteristics of the patients with and without neuropathic pain. However, there were significant differences in the pain scores between those with and without neuropathic pain (p < 0.01). Furthermore, there was a significant difference between the existence of night pain in these patients (p < 0.01). Based on the results of the current study, we conclude that it is important to be aware of, and consider the existence of neuropathic pain during the treatment of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome with night pain or a high score on the numerical rating scales of pain.

Epidemiology of neuropathic pain

“…However, a study aiming at evaluating clinical NP characteristics in carpal tunnel syndrome patients using painDETECT as questionnaire to distinguish NP has not shown significant differences among patients with and without NP; however pain intensity and night pain were higher for those with NP 52 .…”

A Randomized Comparison of Double Small, Standard, and Endoscopic Approaches for Carpal Tunnel Release

“…1 If a regimen of conservative management has failed, surgical release of the median nerve is warranted. 2 Numerous approaches have been described, ranging from open techniques to limited incisions to endoscopic release. [3][4][5] Nevertheless, balance of incision, visualization of the operating field, and appearance of scar remains controversial.…”

Comparison of 2 methods of neuropathic pain assessment in carpal tunnel syndrome and hand functions

“…In two studies by Sonohata et al 31 PD-Q patients were grouped as "unlikely", "possible" and "likely neuropathic pain" and they did not find any statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of pain, hand grip strength and SWF tests. 30 There are limitations to our study. The study was conducted in patients with mild, moderate and severe CTS, but the number of severe CTS patients was inadequate.…”