Effectiveness of splinting for work-related carpal tunnel syndrome: a three-month follow-up study

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of splinting in relieving symptoms and improving functional status of clients with work-related carpal tunnel syndrome. The study used a quasi-experimental, time series, within-subject design. Twenty-two participants sampled from a hospital were examined and treated with the modified ulnar gutter wrist splint; they filled out self-administered questionnaires twice before splinting (1--2 weeks and immediately) and twice after splinting (2 weeks and 10--12 weeks). Participants showed significant improvement in symptom severity and functional status three months after splinting. Duration of symptoms, other medical conditions, work conditions, and non-compliant to splint wear seemed to be factors associated with the treatment outcome. Future studies are recommended with a longer follow-up period, a larger number of participants, a randomized sample, and a control group for better generalization and increased validity of the results.