Investigating how neuroinflammation affects pain in carpal tunnel syndrome

The role of neuroinflammation in human peripheral neuropathic pain

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10846674

This study is looking at how inflammation in the nervous system affects pain in people with carpal tunnel syndrome, and it involves 100 participants, including those with the condition and some healthy volunteers, to see how their pain changes before and after surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10846674 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of neuroinflammation in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a common condition that causes pain and discomfort in the hand. The study will involve 100 participants, including 80 individuals with CTS and 20 healthy volunteers, who will undergo clinical evaluations and advanced brain and spinal cord imaging using PET/MR technology. By comparing the imaging results and clinical assessments before and after carpal tunnel release surgery, the researchers aim to uncover the relationship between neuroinflammation and pain severity in CTS patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with neuropathic pain not related to carpal tunnel syndrome or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome and related neuropathic pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using PET imaging to study neuroinflammation in chronic pain conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.