The Effects of Sensory Therapy on Pain, Upper Extremity Functions and Sleep Quality in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Background: Pain, functional limitations of upper extremities and sleep disorders are important problems that affect the quality of life and daily activities. Pain is one of the most common symptoms observed in patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Because pain limits the upper extremities' functions and adversely affects sleep quality, the daily activities of the individuals are limited, and their quality of life is impaired. Aim: To assess pain, upper extremity functions and sleeps quality in participant with CTS. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine if sensory therapy is a beneficial modality to relieves pain, improve participants' sleep quality and upper extremity functions in patients with CTS. Methods: Thirty volunteers (27 females and 3 males) diagnosed with CTS, ages from 33 to 68 years, and were included in the study. Demographic characteristics were noted, pain intensity, upper extremity functions and sleep quality of the subjects were assessed. Pain intensity using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), upper extremity functions using Shoulder and Hand Disabilities of the Arm (DASH), and sleep quality were measured Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Study type: Randomized, double-blind study. Results: When the values before and after the sensory therapy were compared, a significant decrease (p˂0.05) was found in the pain intensity at rest, with activity, and during day and night. Additionally, differences in DASH and PSQI values showed statistically significant improvement in both upper extremity functions and sleep quality (both p˂0.05). Conclusion: In the light of the study results, we concluded that sensory therapy improves sleep quality and upper extremity functions, and that it relieves pain symptoms in patients with CTS.