The comparison between the therapeutic effects of the ultrasound and low-level laser treatments on the healing process of the carpal tunnel syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: This study was designed to compare the efficacy of ultrasound and laser treatment for mild to moderate idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Materials and Methods: Ninety hands in 50 consecutive patients with CTS confirmed by electromyography participated randomly in two experimental groups, ultrasound therapy and low level laser therapy (LLLT). Intervention in each group included 15 daily treatment sessions (5 sessions/week). Ultrasound treatment (1 MHz, 1.0 W/cm2, pulse 1:4, 15 min/session) applied to the area over the carpal tunnel of one wrist and LLLT (9 joules, 830 NM infrared laser at five points) applied to other wrist. Measurements were performed before and after treatment and also after 4 weeks follow up and included pain assessment by visual analogue scale electroneugraphic measurement (motor and sensory latency, motor and sensory action potential amplitude), pinch and grip strength. Results: Improvement was significantly more pronounced in ultrasound group than in LLLT group for variables motor latency and motor action potential amplitude (P