Assessing small nerve fiber activity in carpal tunnel syndrome patients through sensory testing
Official title: Small Nerve Fiber Activity in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Assessed Via Quantitative Sensory Testing
Run by Brooke Army Medical Center · NCT06550284 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how physical therapy affects small nerve fibers in people with carpal tunnel syndrome to see if it improves their symptoms and nerve function.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Brooke Army Medical Center Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (San Antonio, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 12, 2024 |
| Main results expected | July 2025 |
| Study ends | July 2025 |
| Registry record updated | February 5, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06550284 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-65 with a clinical diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome and specific positive clinical tests.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with conditions such as radiculopathy, bilateral CTS, or those who have had recent upper extremity trauma or surgery may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate changes in small nerve fiber function in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) following a standard course of physical therapy. It will utilize quantitative sensory testing (QST) to measure the activity of A-beta, A-delta, and C-fibers before and after treatment. The study will also explore the relationship between these changes and patient-reported outcomes, as well as compare nerve function between affected and unaffected wrists. By focusing on small nerve fibers, the study seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of CTS beyond traditional electrodiagnostic methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome by providing insights into small nerve fiber involvement.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that quantitative sensory testing can effectively assess small nerve fiber changes in carpal tunnel syndrome, indicating that this approach has been successful in related research.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: DEERS eligible Age 18-65 Pain and paresthesia in the median nerve distribution A positive Phalen test A positive Tinel test over the carpal tunnel Willing to attend physical therapy Exclusion Criteria: Nerve root signs consistent with a radiculopathy Suspected radial and ulnar nerve involvement based on monofilament testing Bilateral CTS Previous hand surgery Injections in the upper quarter in the last 6 months Cervical, shoulder, or UE trauma in the last 6 months Currently pregnant or postpartum within the last 6 months No more than minimal care (evaluation and patient education, 1 visit) for the current episode
Where it's running
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Brooke Army Medical Center
San Antonio, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Cortney C Shewmaker, DPT
- Email: cortney.c.shewmaker.mil@health.mil
- Phone: 417-766-7414
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Matrix Rhythm Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This study tests whether adding Matrix Rhythm Therapy to standard care helps people with mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome improve symptoms, hand function, grip and pinch strength, and quality of life.
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Carpal tunnel release vs placebo surgery in Finland
In this trial, people with carpal tunnel syndrome are randomly assigned to either standard carpal tunnel surgery or a pretend surgery to see if relief comes from the operation itself or from placebo effects.
-
High-intensity laser therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome
This trial will test whether high-intensity laser therapy helps adults 18–65 with mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome reduce pain and improve nerve function and hand strength compared with a sham procedure.
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Ultrasound-guided needle release plus dextrose (D5W) hydrodissection for carpal tunnel syndrome
This trial tests whether combining ultrasound-guided partial release of the transverse carpal ligament with dextrose (D5W) hydrodissection provides better symptom relief for adults with carpal tunnel syndrome and at least moderate symptoms.
-
A mix of vitamins to help recovery after carpal tunnel surgery
This will test whether taking alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin E, and B vitamins helps adults recover better after carpal tunnel release surgery.
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Symptom spread and pain sensitivity in carpal tunnel syndrome
This test looks at whether people with carpal tunnel syndrome whose symptoms spread beyond the usual finger area have higher central pain sensitivity, using a questionnaire and pressure pain testing.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.