Evaluating Post-Surgery Nerve Gliding Exercise among Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome for Hand Function and Symptoms Severity

Abstract

The median nerve compression that causes carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common cause of pain, discomfort, and impaired function; nerve gliding exercises help alleviate these symptoms and restore normal function. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the post-surgery nerve gliding exercise among patients with carpal tunnel syndrome for hand function and symptoms severity. Design: The current study fulfilled its objectives by using a quasi-experimental research design. Setting: A neurosurgery unit at Minia University Hospital was the setting for the current study. Sample: Sixty adult patients diagnosed with CTS were included in the convenience non-probability sample. Tools: A Structured Interview questionnaire, Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire. Results: Six weeks after surgery, the study group showed statistically significant improvement in functional status and intensity of symptoms compared to the control group, with mean scores33.3 ± 7.5 & 71.9 ± 11.7 respectively at p- value ≤ 0.001. Conclusion: The results show that nerve gliding exercises are more helpful for post-operative CTS patients within the context of alleviating symptoms, increasing hand function, and reducing functional impairment in activity daily living (ADLs). Recommendations: Applying nerve gliding exercises for 6 weeks postoperatively should be mandated in order to alleviate patients' suffering with CTS.