Neuromodulation of the median nerve in carpal tunnel syndrome, a single-blind, randomized controlled study

Abstract

Background This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of pulsed radiofrequency applied using transcutaneous electrodes in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods After randomization, the patients received two cycles of noninvasive pulsed radiofrequency (NiPRF), once weekly, or splinting (the control group) for three months. Clinical evaluations were recorded at baseline and weeks 4 and 8. The Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) was used to determine the functional status and symptom severity. Results Sixty-two patients were followed up for three months. There was no difference between the groups in the BCTQ scores before and after treatment. The NiPRF group found a significant difference between the BCTQ measurements at all time intervals (paired sample t -test; P < 0.001). In the splint group, there was a significant difference only between the basal-1st month and basal-3rd month (paired samples t -test; P < 0.001). The main effect of the time variable was statistically significant (ANOVA; P < 0.001), but the group variable was not. There was no correlation between the BCTQ results measured at any time and the electroneuromyelogragphy findings in either group. Conclusions NiPRF effectively improves symptoms and functionality in patients with CTS for up to 3 months. Thus, NiPRF can be considered an easy, safe, and useful alternative treatment modality for CTS.