Evaluating nerve stiffness in carpal tunnel syndrome patients receiving therapy

Pilot Study Evaluating the Elasticity and Shear Wave Modulus (Stiffness) of the Median Nerve in Patients With Mild to Moderate Idiopathic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Receiving OMT and Conservative Therapy

Not applicable Interventional Kettering Health Network · NCT06150443

This study is testing if a combination of therapy and treatment can improve the stiffness and flexibility of the median nerve in people with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorKettering Health Network Academic / other
Locations1 site (Dayton, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT06150443 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to assess the elasticity and stiffness of the median nerve in patients diagnosed with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. Participants will receive osteopathic manipulative therapy alongside conservative treatment, with the goal of quantifying any changes in nerve properties. The study will utilize advanced imaging techniques to measure the shear wave modulus of the median nerve before and after treatment. This approach seeks to provide insights into the effectiveness of the therapies on nerve health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with unilateral or bilateral mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome based on recent EMG findings.

Not a fit: Patients with severe carpal tunnel syndrome, recent wrist trauma, or systemic diseases that affect nerve health 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.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on the specific combination of therapies being tested, similar studies have shown promise in evaluating nerve properties in related conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of unilateral or bilateral mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, based on recent EMG findings

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of undergoing recent physical therapy for treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome
* History of wrist trauma or surgery
* Hypothyroidism
* Severe CTS that has progressed to muscle atrophy
* Systemic disease or condition including but not limited to diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, rheumatoid disorders, Paget's bone disease, gout, myxedema, multiple myeloma, acromegaly, hepatic disease, dialysis patients, or other diseases or conditions in which peripheral neuropathies are common.
* Secondary cause of CTS such as a ganglion cyst, mass, or an accessory muscle shown by US or MRI of the affected wrist.
* Bifid median nerve as shown by US or MRI of the affected wrist
* pregnant or recently postpartum

Where this trial is running

Dayton, Ohio

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. 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
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.