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Extracorporeal shock wave therapy and ultrasound therapy improve pain and function in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. A randomized controlled trial [with consumer summary]
Paoloni M, Tavernese E, Cacchio A, d'Orazi V, Ioppolo F, Fini M, Santilli V, Mangone M
European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine 2015 Oct;51(5):521-528
clinical trial
7/10 [Eligibility criteria: Yes; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: Yes; Baseline comparability: Yes; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: Yes; Adequate follow-up: Yes; Intention-to-treat analysis: Yes; Between-group comparisons: No; Point estimates and variability: Yes. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound (US) therapy improves symptoms in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients. Extra-corporeal 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.

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