Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare different conservative treatments in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods: 40 patients with CTS were included in the present quasi-experimental study. Phonophoresis group (n=20) had phonophoresis treatment at the rate of 1.5 w/cm2 with mucopolysaccharide polysulphate (MPS) gel, while other group (n=20) had ultrasound treatment at the rate of 1.5 w/cm2 only. Both groups received orthosis and exercises. All patients were evaluated based on electroneurophysiological parameters, MR imaging, visual analoge scale, Algometer, Jamar Hand Dynamometer and Boston Severity Scale and Functional Status Scale at the beginning of and three months after the treatment. Results:Significant improvements were observed in both groups for all symptoms except for hand grip strength in phonophoresis group and except for hand grip strength and motor deficit in ultrasound group. While median nerve conduction velocity increased in both groups, significant improvement in electromyography staging was observed only in phonophoresis group (p=0.037). Significant decreases in cross-sectional area in MR measurements were observed at two levels in ultrasound group, and for all levels in phonophoresis group (p<0.05). Conclusion: It could be stated that MPS phonophoresis has positive effects on nerve conduction studies, MR findings and clinical outcomes in treatment of CTS. Keywords: Carpal tunnel syndrome, Mucopolysaccharide polysulphate, Phonophoresis
Corresponding Author: Sevil Okan