Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
Screening of Axonal Degeneration in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Using Ultrasonography and Nerve Conduction Studies
Published on: January 11, 2019
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy and ultrasound therapy improve pain and function in patients with carpal tunnel
M Paoloni1, E Tavernese, A Cacchio
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy - marco.paoloni@uniroma1.it.
Background:
Ultrasound (US) therapy improves symptoms in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) uses acoustic energy to determine its clinical effects, as US-therapy does.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to compare the short-term efficacy of US and ESWT on mild and moderate CTS.
Study Design:
Randomized controlled trial.
Setting:
University outpatient service.
Population:
Twenty-five patients with mild to moderate CTS, for a total of 42 wrists.
Methods:
patients were randomized to receive US, cryo-US or ESWT, and were evaluated for pain and function before treatment started, at the end of treatment, and four and 12 weeks after the end of the treatment.
Results:
Significant improvement was noted in all groups for pain (P<0.05) and functionality (P<0.05). Patients in ESWT group show greater pain improvement at 12-weeks follow-up when compared with both US and cryo-US groups (P<0.05).
Conclusion:
Patients affected by CTS might benefit from the application of US, cryo-US or ESWT. Benefits persist 3 months after the end of treatment.
Clinical Rehabil Impact:
Clinicians might consider the possibility of a short-term non-surgical management for mild-to-moderate CTS.
