Neurodynamic techniques vs. desensitization maneuvers in the manual therapy management of moderate carpal tunnel syndrome among women: randomized clinical trial with 1-year follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the clinical and electrophysiological effects of neurodynamic techniques vs. desensitization maneuvers in women with moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). DESIGN: Randomized clinical trial. The study included 380 female participants with moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, aged between 45 and 55 years, who were randomly assigned to a neurodynamic technique group or a desensitization maneuvers group. Neurodynamic techniques in one group and desensitization in the other group were conducted for 3 months. OUTCOME: Measures were nerve conduction, pain, symptom severity, and functional status using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire, and cylindrical and pincer grip strength before treatment and after 3 months of treatment. One-year follow-up for pain, symptom severity, and functional status using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire. RESULTS: Both groups demonstrated significant within-group improvements in nerve conduction, pain, symptom severity, and functional status (P < 0.001). Between-group analysis showed greater improvements in sensory and motor nerve conduction, pain, symptom severity, and functional status in the desensitization group (P < 0.001). Improvements in cylindrical and pincer grip strength were significant only in the desensitization group. Clinical gains in pain and function were maintained at 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: Both interventions were effective in women with moderate CTS; however, desensitization maneuvers demonstrated superior improvements in neurophysiological outcomes, pain, and function over 12 weeks, with sustained benefits at 1-year follow-up.Clinical Trial Registration: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/, NCT05150912.