A randomized, controlled trial of magnetic therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome.
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.
['Baute|Vanessa|V|', 'Keskinyan|Vahakn S|VS|', 'Sweeney|Erica R|ER|', 'Bowden|Kayla D|KD|', 'Gordon|Allison|A|', 'Hutchens|Janet|J|', 'Cartwright|Michael S|MS|']
D002349:Carpal Tunnel Syndrome D004867:Equipment Design D005240:Feasibility Studies D005260:Female D006801:Humans D059346:Magnets D008297:Male D008475:Median Nerve D008875:Middle Aged D009431:Neural Conduction D010349:Patient Compliance D016896:Treatment Outcome D014463:Ultrasonography
magnet therapy carpal tunnel syndrome median nerve ultrasound alternative therapy for CTS complementary therapy for CTS static magnetic field