Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of iontophoresis, corticosteroid injection and non-steroid anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug on symptoms, grip strength and hand function in patients with CTS.

Materials and Methods: Forty-eight patients with moderate CTS were recruited and divided into three groups. The patients were treated with iontophoresis in-group A, with injections in-group B, with NSAIDs in-group C. All of the patients were given wrist splints in neutral position. BSSS (Boston Symptom Severity Scale) was used to evaluate the symptoms, grip strength was detected by Jamar hand dynamometer, lateral, palmar and tip pinch strength were measured by a pinchmeter and hand function was recorded by Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT). The patients were evaluated before treatment, at the 1st and the 3rd month after treatment.

Results: The BSSS scores improved in all groups at the 1st month (p<0.001), in groups A and B (p<0.001) and in group C (p<0.01) at the 3rd month. The lateral pinch strength of the patients’ in-group A and the palmar pinch of the patients’ in-group B were improved at 3rd month (respectively p<0.01, p<0.05). There was no difference in the groups regarding to grip strength and NHPT at the 1st and 3rd months.

Conclusion: Ionthophoresis, injection and NSAII drug demonstrated no superior results. All methods make an improvement in the symptoms. Iontophoresis and injection may improve grip strength. Using night splints alone can be effective in the symptoms, lateral and palmar strength. ©2008,Firat University, Medical Faculty