Hand Shape and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Neurology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Existing research on external anatomical measurements and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) lacks conclusive evidence.
• Hand shape and its correlation with CTS require further investigation for improved diagnostic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare hand shape measurements between patients diagnosed with CTS and those without.
• To identify specific hand indices that may predict the likelihood of developing CTS.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case-control study involving participants with suspected CTS.
• Nerve conduction tests (NCT) were used to confirm CTS in 65 hands, with 73 hands serving as controls.
• Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) model analyzed the relationship between three hand index ratios and CTS diagnosis.

Main Results:

• The Palmar Length/Palmar Width index demonstrated the strongest negative association with CTS.
• This index exhibited the highest sensitivity and specificity in detecting CTS.
• Hands with a more square shape were found to have an increased tendency for CTS diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Hand indices incorporating palm shape can be valuable for identifying individuals at higher risk of CTS.
• These measurements may facilitate early screening and preventative strategies for carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Further research into anatomical predictors could enhance non-invasive CTS detection methods.