Extrait

Background and study aims Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes pain, numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers. The median nerve runs the length of the arm, and is responsible for controlling sensation and movement in the thumb and first three fingers. In order to enter the hand, this nerve must run though a narrow passage of small bones and tough fibres in the wrist, known as the carpal tunnel. Swelling can narrow this tunnel so that the median nerve is compressed (nerve entrapment), causing CTS. Carpal tunnel decompression, also known as carpel tunnel release surgery, is a simple operation that that is recommended if the symptoms of carpal tunnel are particularly severe. During the surgery, a ligament in the wrist is cut, which relieves pressure on the median nerve. Who can participate? Adults who have had carpal tunnel decompression surgery at least four months ago, who report numbness or difficulty doing up buttons. What does the study involve? Participants undergo four sensory tests, to determine whether there are any problems with the way the can feel. They are then randomly allocated into one of two groups. Those in the first group receive “sensory re-learning”, which involves practising a set of exercises every day for four weeks. Those in the second group are not given “sensory re-learning” exercises to practise for the four week study period. At the end of the study period, and after another four weeks, the sensory assessments are repeated. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? Not provided at time of registration. Where is the study run from? University of East Anglia (UK) When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? February 2011 to May 2011 Who is funding the study? National Institute for Health Research (UK) Who is the main contact? Dr Christina Jerosch-Herold

Critère d'inclusion

• Musculoskeletal impairment associated with Carpal tunnel syndrome

Liens

• ictrp
• isrctn