Effectiveness of TECAR Therapy on Clinical Symptoms and Neurophysiological Parameters of Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most typical peripheral entrapment neuropathy. To date, various non-invasive methods have been used to manage CTS. This study investigates the effectiveness of Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR), a new physical agent modality, on symptoms and neurophysiological parameters in patients with CTS. Methods: In this single-blind randomized clinical trial, 29 patients with mild or moderate CTS were randomly assigned to two groups. Group 1 received TECAR therapy with a frequency of 500 Hz and an intensity of 30 to 50%, 2 sessions/week, in addition to wrist splints and vitamin B supplements for 4 weeks. Group 2 also received a wrist splint and vitamin B for 4 weeks without TECAR therapy. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ-SSS and FSS), as well as clinical and neurophysi-ological findings, were assessed before and 8 weeks after treatment. Within and between-group comparisons were made after the intervention period. Results: VAS and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (FSS and SSS) showed significant changes. Clinical CTS tests and electro-physiological parameters did not show significant differences before and after the study. From a clinical perspective (pain relief and functional improvement), the TECAR therapy group showed more definite changes. Conclusions: TECAR can be considered an effective non-invasive treatment for patients with mild to moderate CTS.