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

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.