Complementary treatment options in carpal tunnel syndrome surgery; Prospective randomized controlled study

Aim: In this study, we aimed to determine the efficacy of splinting and exercise modalities in addition to surgical treatment in advanced carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) cases. Material and Method: Patients were divided into 3 different groups according to the order of application, and after surgical intervention their treatment was continued according to the group they were in. There were 51 hands in 50 female patients in group 1 (control group); 52 hands in 51 female patients in group 2 (exercise group); 52 hands in 50 patients in group 3 (wrist splint group). Patients were given a follow-up number by computer software under which the following data were recorded: age, body mass index (BMI), date of surgery, operated side, preoperative disorders, pre and postoperative EMG findings, surgical technique, pre and postoperative visual analogue scales (VAS), pre and post-operative Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) and post-operative complications. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient (r) were used for statistical analysis. Results: There was no statistical difference between the groups in terms of VAS and FSS change. However, there was a statistically significant difference in terms of BSSS change. In the exercise group (Group 2) it was found that the healing was better and faster than the other groups. Conclusion: We believe that early and effective postoperative exercise, which is to be applied in addition to surgical treatment in advanced CTS cases, leads to healing of the patient and, in parallel, early return to work.