A randomized, controlled trial of magnetic therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome. Issue 2 (25th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Baute, Vanessa; Keskinyan, Vahakn S.; Sweeney, Erica R.; Bowden, Kayla D.; Gordon, Allison; Hutchens, Janet; Cartwright, Michael S.
• Is Part Of: Muscle & nerve. Volume 58:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 310
• Page End: 313
• Publication Date: 2018-03-25
• Subjects: alternative therapy for CTS -- carpal tunnel syndrome -- complementary therapy for CTS -- magnet therapy -- median nerve ultrasound -- static magnetic field; Neuromuscular diseases -- Periodicals; Muscles -- Periodicals; Nerves -- Periodicals; 616.74
• DOI: 10.1002/mus.26120
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0148-639X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction : Magnet therapy has been proposed as a treatment for neurologic conditions. In this this trial we assessed the feasibility and efficacy of a magnet inserted into a wristband for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods : Twenty‐two patients with mild to moderate CTS were randomized to wear a high‐dose or low‐dose "sham" magnetic wristband for 6 weeks. The primary outcome was the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire. Secondary measures were nerve conduction studies (NCS), median nerve ultrasound, and compliance. Results : Compliance for both groups was >90%. Improvements in the mean SSS, NCS, and median nerve ultrasound did not reach statistical significance. Discussion : Magnet therapy via wristband is well‐tolerated. Further investigations in larger populations are needed to determine efficacy. Muscle Nerve 58 : 310–313, 2018