Is a methylprednisolone injection proximal to the carpal tunnel an effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)?
GROUND: CTS is a common problem caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist resulting in hand numbness, loss of dexterity, muscle wasting, and decreased functional ability at work. This study investigated the efficacy of a corticosteroid injection just proximal (not into) the carpal tunnel for CTS. POPULATION STUDIED: Study participants included 60 patients referred to a neurology clinic in Amsterdam, Netherlands, with CTS symptoms for longer than 3 months’ duration and confirmed with electrophysiological tests. Patients in the intervention and control groups had symptoms for an average of 32 months and 25 months, respectively. In patients with bilateral symptoms, the arm with the most severe symptoms was chosen for randomization. Patients aged younger than 18 years and those who had previous treatment for CTS were excluded. STUDY DESIGN AND VALIDITY: Patients were randomized to receive an injection of either lignocaine (Lidocaine 10 mg) and methylprednisolone 40 mg or a lig
