Can we use nerve gliding exercises in women with carpal tunnel syndrome?

Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of nerve gliding exercises used in combination with conservative treatment approaches in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. A total of 35 hands of 26 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome were divided into 2 groups. Static volar wrist splints were applied to 16 hands in the control group, and these patients were trained to modify their functional activities in accordance with conservative treatment. In the experimental group, nerve gliding exercises were applied to 19 hands that were also treated conservatively. A day-and-night splint, together with the conservative training program, was applied for 6 weeks to both groups. Subsequently, a night splint only was used in both groups, and nerve gliding exercises were continued in the experimental group for the remaining 4 weeks. Pretreatment and posttreatment assessments of pain, sensation, muscle strength, and grip and pinch strength, along with Tinel and Phalen tests, were performed in all cases; electrophysiologic measurements were recorded. Significant progress was detected in both control and experimental groups during the posttreatment phase compared with the initial phase (P < .05). However, when the 2 groups were compared, the experimental group in which nerve gliding exercises were added to conservative therapy approaches demonstrated more rapid pain reduction; these patients also showed greater functional improvement, especially in grip strength (P < .05).