Understanding central sensitization for advances in management of carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common nerve compression disorder of the upper extremity, and it is traditionally considered a peripheral neuropathy associated with a localized compression of the median nerve just at the level of the carpal tunnel. Surgery and physiotherapy are treatment approaches commonly used for this condition; however, conflicting clinical outcomes suggest that carpal tunnel syndrome may be more complex. There is evidence supporting the role of peripheral nociception from the median nerve in carpal tunnel syndrome; however, emerging evidence also suggests a potential role of central sensitization. The presence of spreading pain symptoms (e.g. proximal pain), widespread sensory changes, or bilateral motor control impairments in people presenting with strictly unilateral sensory symptoms supports the presence of spinal cord changes. Interestingly, bilateral sensory and motor changes are not directly associated with electrodiagnostic findings. Other studies have also reported that patients presenting with carpal tunnel syndrome exhibit neuroplastic brainstem change supporting central sensitization. Current data would support the presence of a central sensitization process, mediated by the peripheral drive originating in the compression of the median nerve, in people with carpal tunnel syndrome. The presence of altered nociceptive gain processing should be considered in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome by integrating therapeutic approaches aiming to modulate long-lasting nociceptive barrage into the central nervous system (peripheral drive) and strategies aiming to activate endogenous pain networks (central drive).