Effectiveness of Contrast Bath and Nerve Gliding Exercises in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Among Software Workers

Abstract

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a complex symptom resulting from compression of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel. Locations of monitors, keyboard (or) mouse are associated with musculoskeletal problems. Among musculoskeletal problems, Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is commonly reported in computer professionals. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of contrast bath and nerve gliding exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome in software workers. 30 subjects (20 males and 10 females) were participating in this study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were assigned into groups Group A and B with 15 subjects each. Group A (Experimental group) received Contrast bath and Nerve Gliding Exercises, while Group B (Control group) received conventional exercises for the wrist. The outcome measures used were NPRS and ROM. Statistical analysis was done using paired-t test. On comparing the pre-test and post-tests within Group A & Group B on the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), wrist flexion and extension Range of Motion (ROM) show a significant difference in mean values at P ≤ 0.001. There was a significant difference in the mean values of NPRS (6.33 to 3.40), wrist flexion (54.00 to 72.66), and wrist extension (55.66 to 72.80) in subjects from Group A who underwent contrast bath and nerve gliding exercises, compared to the significant difference in the mean values of NPRS (6.26 to 4.46), wrist flexion (53.66 to 63.00), and wrist extension (56.00 to 61.66) in subjects from Group B, which served as the control group.