Utilization of Neurophysiological Classification Systems in Determining Interventions for Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Background: Median mononeuropathy at or distal to the wrist, or carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), is the most common peripheral nerve compression disorder in the upper extremity. Neurophysiological classification systems for patients with CTS have been developed and implemented to provide health care providers an enhanced system of electrophysiological evaluation with a grading scale, so that they may evaluate their patients with CTS within a system that confers relative severity. Electrophysiological data collected within these classification systems includes either nerve conduction studies (NCS), or both NCS and electromyography (EMG) test results.

GEHS neurophysiological classification system for patients with neuropathy of the ulnar nerve at the elbow.

Background: Neuropathy of the ulnar nerve at the elbow is one of a number of muscle-related and nerve-related disorders that affect people performing intensive work with their hands and upper extremities, and is the second most prevalent peripheral nerve mononeuropathy. There are several classification systems currently being used by the medical community for patients with neuropathy of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. However, few of these classification systems include the clinical electrophysiologic parameters nerve conduction (NCS) and electromyographic (EMG) studies.

PERTINENT DRY NEEDLING CONSIDERATIONS FOR MINIMIZING ADVERSE EFFECTS - PART TWO.

Background: Dry needling (DN) is an evidence based treatment technique that is accepted and used by physical therapists in the United States. This clinical commentary is the second in a two-part series outlining some of the pertinent anatomy and other issues that are needed for optimal utilization of this treatment modality. Part one was an overview of the thorax with a summary of reported adverse effects (AEs) and the underlying anatomy that could be used to minimize patient risk.

PERTINENT DRY NEEDLING CONSIDERATIONS FOR MINIMIZING ADVERSE EFFECTS - PART ONE.

Background: Dry needling is an evidence-based treatment technique that is accepted and used by physical therapists in the United States. This treatment approach focuses on releasing or inactivating muscular trigger points to decrease pain, reduce muscle tension, and assist patients with an accelerated return to active rehabilitation.

Issue: While commonly used, the technique has some patient risk and value of the treatment should be based on benefit compared to the potential risk.

GEHS Neurophysiological Classification System for Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Background: Median neuropathy at or distal to the wrist or carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of a number of muscle, tendon, and nerve-related disorders that affect people performing intensive work with their hands. Following a thorough history and physical examination, electrophysiological examination including both nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) testing may be performed and currently serve as the reference standard for the diagnosis of CTS. The EMG and NCS exams should identify the peripheral nerve, specific location in the nerve pathway, involvement of sensory and/or motor axons, and the presence of myelinopathy and/or axonopathy neuropathic process.

Median and ulnar neuropathies in university guitarists.

Study Design: Descriptive study.

Objectives: To determine the presence of median and ulnar neuropathies in both upper extremities of university guitarists.

Background: Peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes of the upper extremities are well documented in musicians.

Effect of fluidotherapy on superficial radial nerve conduction and skin temperature.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the superficial heating modality, Fluidotherapy, on skin temperature and on sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) conduction latency and amplitude of the superficial radial nerve in healthy individuals.

Background: Fluidotherapy is a dry, superficial heating modality, which also provides tactile stimulation through the bombardment of air-fluidized cellulose particles.