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

ABSTRACT

This study was designed to compare the efficacy of ultrasound and laser treatment for mild to moderate idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome [CTS]. 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/cm[2], pulse 14, 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. Improvement was significantly more pronounced in ultrasound group than in LLLT group for variables; motor latency and motor action potential amplitude [P<0.0001]; sensory latency [P<0.001]; sensory action potential amplitude [P<0.05], hand grip strength [P<0.01], finger pinch strength [P<0.0001] and pain relief [P<0.0001], with sustained effects after follow up period. Results indicate both ultrasound and laser were effective, but ultrasound was better than laser. Since some effective results were seen due to the laser therapy, further investigation is needed to investigate the effects of combination of these treatments in patients with mild to moderate CTS