Comparing Efficacy of Osteopathic Manipulation vs. Wrist Immobilization for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Patient Perception

What this Trial Is About

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by disruption of the median nerve, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand. It can also affect motor function in severe cases. Various factors like inflammation, compression, and mechanical injury contribute to CTS, which can be seen on ultrasound imaging. This research compares osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) and wrist immobilization as treatments for mild to moderate CTS, aiming to evaluate their effects using MRI and patient-reported outcomes. Participants diagnosed with mild or moderate CTS will be randomly assigned to either an OMM group or a wrist immobilization group. The OMM group will receive weekly 30-minute osteopathic treatment sessions for six weeks, targeting the nervous system and upper extremity structures. The wrist immobilization group will use a soft Apollo Wrist Brace nightly for six weeks, designed to maintain wrist neutrality and reduce nerve compression. MRIs will be performed at the start and end of the treatment period for both groups. Throughout the study, participants will complete the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire at multiple time points: baseline, three weeks, six weeks, and four weeks after treatment ends. MRIs will measure changes in the cross-sectional area of the carpal tunnel. Data will be analyzed statistically to compare the two treatments. The total study duration per participant is 10 weeks, including treatment and follow-up assessments.

Comparing Efficacy of Osteopathic Manipulation vs. Wrist Immobilization for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome