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Pain Neuroscience Education Versus Kinesio Tape on Functional Outcomes in Patients With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Sponsor: Middle East University
Summary
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common compressive neuropathies of the upper limb, characterized by pain, numbness, and functional impairment due to median nerve compression at the wrist. Its prevalence is estimated at approximately 4.9%, with higher incidence in populations exposed to repetitive hand movements. The resulting sensory disturbances, grip weakness, and functional limitations significantly affect daily activities and quality of life. Conservative management remains the first line of treatment for mild to moderate CTS, with therapeutic approaches traditionally including splinting, exercise therapy, nerve mobilization, and patient education. Recent interest has grown around Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE)-an educational strategy that reframes patients' understanding of pain by emphasizing the role of the central nervous system, cognitive factors, and neurophysiological processes. Studies have shown that PNE, particularly when combined with exercise or standard rehabilitation, can reduce symptom severity, improve functional outcomes, and help patients better manage chronic pain by reducing fear and catastrophizing. However, the existing literature notes that research on PNE for CTS is still limited, with some trials suggesting positive outcomes but calling for more high-quality evidence. In parallel, Kinesio Taping (KT) has gained popularity as a noninvasive intervention believed to enhance circulation, provide proprioceptive input, and support soft tissue mobility. Evidence from randomized controlled trials shows that KT can improve grip strength, reduce pain intensity, enhance sensory conduction velocity, and improve functional status as measured by validated clinical tools such as the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire. These findings suggest that KT may serve as an effective supplementary therapy in the conservative management of CTS
Official title: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
20 Years - 50 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
60
Start Date
2025-06-15
Completion Date
2027-09-20
Last Updated
2026-04-20
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
group A: pain neuroscience education (PNE)
1- Education on neurobiology and neurophysiology of pain 2- How beliefs and behaviours influence pain 3- Central sensitization and pain amplification 4- Use of metaphors, visuals, and interactive discussion the frequency of the session 1- 1 session/week, 30-40 minutes 2- Duration: 6 weeks 3- Delivered by a trained physiotherapist
group B: Patients receive Kinesio Taping
KT Application Technique 1- Elastic tape placed along flexor retinaculum and median nerve pathway 2- Tension: 10-15% 3- Reapplied twice weekly 4- Duration: 6 weeks
Locations (1)
Bassam Ahmed Nabil
October City, Giza Governorate, Egypt