OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy of neurodynamic techniques used as the sole therapeutic component compared with "sham" therapy in the treatment of mild and moderatecarpal tunnel syndromes (CTS). DESIGN: Single blinded, randomized placebo-controlled trial. SETTING: Several medical clinics in the south of Poland. PARTICIPANTS: Volunteer sample of 150 patients diagnosed with CTS. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Symptom severity (SSS) and Functional status (FSS) of Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ). INTERVENTION: Neurodynamic techniques were used in the NT (neurodynamic techniques) group, and "sham" therapy was used in the ST ("sham" therapy) group. In neurodynamic techniques, the neurodynamic sequence were used and sliding and tension techniques were used. In "sham"therapy, no neurodynamic sequences were used and therapeutic procedures were performed in an intermediate position. Therapy was conducted twice weekly for a total of 20 therapy sessions. RESULTS: A baseline assessment revealed no inter-group differences in all examined parameters (p > 0.05). After therapy, there was statisticant intra-group improvement in NCS (sensory and motor conduction velocity, motor latency) only for the NT group (p < 0.01). After therapy, intra-group statisticant changes also occurred for the NT group in pain assessment, 2PD, SSS and FSS (in all cases p < 0.01). There were no group differences in assessment of grip and pinch strength (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The use of neurodynamic techniques has a better therapeutic effect compared to "sham" therapy in the treatment of mild and moderate forms of CTS.

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