Pulsed US Versus SWD in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (NCT07545161) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Pulsed US Versus SWD in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Turkey (Türkiye)40 participantsStarted 2025-03-11
Plain-language summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to compare two physical therapy treatments in people with mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). CTS is a condition that causes pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand.
The main question this study aims to answer is:
Does pulsed ultrasound or pulsed shortwave diathermy lead to greater improvement in symptoms and nerve swelling when added to standard treatment?
All participants will receive standard conservative treatment, including a wrist splint and nerve and tendon gliding exercises for three weeks. In addition, participants will be randomly assigned to receive one of the following treatments:
Pulsed therapeutic ultrasound (US) Pulsed shortwave diathermy (SWD) Researchers will measure changes in hand symptoms, pain levels, grip strength, and the size of the median nerve using ultrasound imaging. Assessments will be performed before treatment, and at 1 month and 3 months after treatment.
The primary outcome of the study is the change in median nerve cross-sectional area at 3 months.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age between 18 and 65 years
* Symptom duration of at least 4 weeks
* Diagnosis of mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome confirmed by electromyography
Exclusion Criteria:
* Cervical radiculopathy
* Brachial plexopathy
* Thoracic outlet syndrome
* Previous carpal tunnel surgery
* Severe carpal tunnel syndrome
* Pregnancy
* Malignancy
* Coagulation disorders
* Cardiac pacemaker
* Physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome within the previous 6 months
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Median Nerve Cross-Sectional Area (MNCSA)