The therapeutic potential of carpal tunnel syndrome by laser acupuncture: a before-after interventional study

Abstract

Background and Aim: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common pathology that affects the quality of human life. It is essential to promote clinical intervention studies. Our initial step in this study focused on the cure for CTS and the safety of Laser Acupuncture (LA), which is a type of acupuncture uses low-level laser instead of metal acupuncture needles. Method: This is a before-after interventional study based on a group of 38 CTS patients, ranging from mild to moderate. Intervention using LA 5 times per week for 4 weeks, using low-level laser with a continuous wavelength of 655 nm, wattage of 5 mW/point, dose of 6 J/point, and direction perpendicular to the skin surface, in 10 pressure points on the affected hand, including PC4, PC6, PC7, PC8, LI4, LI10, LI1, HT3, HT7, LU10. The change in the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS), Functional Status Scale (FSS) through the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) and adverse events were monitored to assess the effectiveness and safety of LA. Results: At the second and fourth weeks, respectively, the SSS score decreased from 28 (27-33) to 14 (14-21) and 12 (11-13); this difference was statistically significant (p<0001). Similarly, the FSS score decreased from 13 (13-15) to 8 (8-10), 8 (8-8), and the difference was statistically significant (p<0001). Following the intervention, 37% (CI 95%, 23-53%) of patients experienced complete symptom recovery and 100% experienced complete functional recovery. No side effects were noted during the treatment. Conclusion: LA was initially shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of CTS by improving symptoms and rehabilitation.