Gender Differences in Nerve Conduction Parameters of Upper Limb Nerves in Healthy Adults: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Background: Nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are essential diagnostic tools for evaluating peripheral nerve function. The influence of gender on nerve conduction parameters, such as conduction velocity, latency, and amplitude, remains a topic of interest. Previous studies have suggested gender differences in nerve conduction but have not provided definitive conclusions.

Objective: This study aims to compare the nerve conduction parameters of the upper limb nerves (median, ulnar, and radial) in healthy male and female adults.

Material and methods: A total of 100 healthy adults (50 males and 50 females) were selected for this study. NCSs were performed on the median, ulnar, and radial nerves, measuring parameters including conduction velocity, latency, and amplitude.

Results: The male group exhibited significantly faster conduction velocities, shorter latencies, and higher amplitudes compared to the female group. The median nerve showed the most pronounced gender differences in conduction velocity.

Conclusion: Gender differences in nerve conduction parameters were evident, with males showing faster conduction and higher amplitude. These differences should be considered in clinical practice to improve the accuracy of NCSs and diagnosis.

Keywords: Gender differences; median nerve; nerve conduction studies; radial nerve; ulnar nerve; upper limb nerves.