Effects of Two Different Kinesiotaping Techniques in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy, typically managed conservatively with tendon and nerve gliding exercises alongside night splints. Recently, Kinesiotaping (KT) has gained popularity for its space-correction mechanism, which aims to increase microcirculation and reduce mechanical pressure on the median nerve. While immediate effects of KT have been studied, there is a lack of literature comparing the long-term structural and clinical effects of specific taping methods.

This prospective, randomized controlled, evaluator-blinded trial is designed to compare the 12-week efficacy of the original "I-Strip" and "Button Hole" kinesiotaping techniques when combined with standard exercise and splint therapy, against a standard therapy-only control group.

The primary objective is to investigate morphological changes in the median nerve using high-resolution neurosonography, specifically tracking the Cross-Sectional Area (CSA) and Flattening Ratio (FR) at the carpal tunnel inlet. Secondary objectives include evaluating improvements in pain and upper extremity functionality. By objectively monitoring structural recovery through dynamic ultrasound imaging, this study aims to provide evidence-based recommendations on the long-term anatomical and clinical benefits of different kinesiotaping applications in CTS management.

Inclusion criteria

Being aged between 18 and 65 years.

• Willingness and ability to sign the informed consent form.
• Having symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (hand numbness, tingling, pain) for at least 3 months.
• Clinical diagnosis of mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome confirmed by physical examination (positive Phalen/Tinel tests) and a prior nerve conduction study (EMG).

Exclusion criteria

• Previous wrist or hand surgery.
• Severe carpal tunnel syndrome on EMG (evidence of thenar atrophy or severe motor loss).
• History of trauma, fracture in the wrist area, or anatomical anomalies affecting ultrasonography.
• Cervical radiculopathy, polyneuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, or other concomitant upper extremity entrapment neuropathies.
• Local corticosteroid injection to the carpal tunnel within the last 6 months.
• Pregnancy.
• Systemic corticosteroid use or inflammatory rheumatic diseases.
• Cognitive impairment or psychiatric illness preventing comprehension of questionnaire instructions.
• Lack of a prior EMG report upon admission to the outpatient clinic.