Is Kinesio taping an alternative to static wrist orthosis in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome? A randomized clinical trial.

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy of the upper extremity. Conservative treatments are effective for treating mild and moderate CTS. There is still a need for studies to investigate the superiority of conservative treatments over each other.

Purpose: The aim of our study was to compare the efficacy of orthosis treatment and Kinesio taping (KT) treatment on pain, functional status, and grip strength in patients with idiopathic CTS.

Study Design: Randomized clinical trial.

Methods: Sixty patients (90% women) who were diagnosed with mild or moderate CTS by electroneuromyography were included in this study. Patients were randomized into two groups: the orthosis and KT groups. Hand grip, and three-point pinch strength measuring with a dynamometer and a pinch meter, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ), Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs Pain Scale (LANSS), and Short Form-36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) were used in clinical assessment. Clinical evaluations were made baseline and at the end of 4 weeks of treatment.

Results: Both KT and static wrist orthosis were found to be effective on SF-36 pain, VAS rest, VAS activity, LANSS, grip strength, three-point pinch strength, BCTQ symptom, and functional scores. The changes in VAS activity (between-group mean difference [MD] = -0.93; CI = -1.83:-0.03; p < 0.05; d = 1.74), BCTQ function scores (MD = -2.60; CI = -5.39:0.19; p < 0.05, d = 5.40), and SF-36 mental health scores (MD = 5.87; CI = 1.15:10.59; p < 0.05; d = 9.13) were significantly higher in the KT group compared to the orthosis group.

Conclusions: KT, which is a straightforward and safe treatment that does not restrict daily activities, may offer a beneficial alternative to restrictive and uncomfortable orthosis therapy for treating mild to moderate CTS in those leading active daily lives.