Neurodynamic techniques versus “sham” therapy in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome; a randomized placebo-controlled trial

Publication date: Available online 4 January 2018
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Tomasz Wolny, Paweł Linek
ObjectivesTo evaluate the efficacy of neurodynamic techniques used as the sole therapeutic component compared with "sham" therapy in the treatment of mild and moderatecarpal tunnel syndromes (CTS).DesignSingle blinded, randomized placebo-controlled trial.SettingSeveral medical clinics in the south of Poland.ParticipantsVolunteer sample of 150 patients diagnosed with CTS.Main Outcome MeasuresSymptom severity (SSS) and Functional status (FSS) of Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ).InterventionNeurodynamic techniques were used in the NT (neurodynamic techniques) group, and "sham" therapy was used in the ST ("sham" therapy) group.In neurodynamic techniques, the neurodynamic sequence were used and sliding and tension techniques were used. In "sham"therapy, no neurodynamic sequences were used and therapeutic procedures were performed in an intermediate position. Therapy was conducted twice weekly for a total of 20 therapy sessions.ResultsA baseline assessment revealed no inter-group differences in all examined parameters (p>0.05). After therapy, there was statisticant intra-group improvement in NCS (sensory and motor conduction velocity, motor latency) only for the NT group (p<0.01). After therapy, intra-group statisticant changes also occurred for the NT group in pain assessment, 2PD, SSS and FSS (in all cases p<0.01). There were no group differences in assessment of grip and pinch strength(p>0.05).ConclusionThe use of neurodynamic techniques has a better therapeutic effect compared to "sham" therapy in the treatment of mild and moderate forms of CTS.



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