Assessing small nerve fiber activity in carpal tunnel syndrome patients through sensory testing
Small Nerve Fiber Activity in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Assessed Via Quantitative Sensory Testing
NA · Brooke Army Medical Center · NCT06550284
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
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Brooke Army Medical Center (fed) |
| Locations | 1 site (San Antonio, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06550284 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
San Antonio, Texas
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, quantitative sensory testing, median nerve, neuropathy, small nerve fiber