Proprioceptive Training Research Articles

Effect of Articular Needling Therapy Combined with Proprioceptive Training on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Effect of Articular Needling Therapy Combined with Proprioceptive Training on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Effects of Augmented Reality based Dual-Task Proprioceptive Training on Postural Stability, Positioning Sensation and Cognition

This study compared augmented reality (AR)-based proprioception training to traditional therapy to determine if the two tasks together were effective in improving postural stability, proprioception, and cognition. Forty-five healthy adults in their 20s were randomized into three groups: AR-based DT, AR-based proprioceptive exercise, and therapist-supervised exercise. Paired t-test and independent t-test were used to determine the within and between group effects, and the three groups were subjected to one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni's post hoc analysis. For postural stability, stability index and postural stability improved post-intervention in all groups (p<.05), with no differences between groups (p>.05). positioning sensation improved in all groups (p<.05), with no difference between groups (p>.05). Cognitive parameters showed significant differences in recognition and calculation in all groups after the intervention (p<.05), and no significant differences in ordering (p<.05). Thus, AR-based interventions have shown similar effects to therapists, improving cognitive performance on both tasks, and can be selected in some cases.

Exploring Effects of Modified Trampoline Training v/s Proprioceptive Training on Balance in Cancer Patients with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Randomized Controlled Trial

Exploring Effects of Modified Trampoline Training v/s Proprioceptive Training on Balance in Cancer Patients with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Randomized Controlled Trial

Effects of padel activity and proprioception training on soccer players in an off-season period.

Off-season periods imply considerable changes in the fitness status of soccer players. So far, no studies evaluated the effects of proprioception-focused training during soccer off-season periods. In this work, we assessed how much some players' abilities (static and dynamic balance, reaction times, quickness, strength, and technical skills) were affected by proprioception training and padel activity during an off-season period of 12 weeks. Twenty-eight non-professional adult male soccer players were organized into three groups: a group carried out regular padel activity, ~2 h once a week. Another group underwent a regular proprioception training program, ~ 20 min, twice a week. The third group did not perform any specific activity (control). Static and dynamic balance, reaction times, quickness, strength, and technical skills were evaluated at three time-points: before starting, after 6 weeks, and after 12 weeks. Both padel activity and specific proprioception training carried out for 12 weeks significantly improved players' monopodalic static balance with eyes open and dynamic balance. No significant effects of these training regimens were found on monopodalic static balance with eyes closed, visual and acoustic reaction times, acyclic quickness, and strength. Furthermore, proprioception training considerably improved technical skills. Coaches may use padel activity and proprioception exercises for off-season programs featured by ease of execution, low training volume, and high compliance.

The Effectiveness of Goal-Oriented Dual Task Proprioceptive Training in Subacute Stroke: A Retrospective Observational Study.

To show the effectiveness of goal-oriented proprioceptive training in subacute stroke for balance, autonomy, and fall risk. Out a total of 35 patients, consistent in age (75.31±8.65 years), type of stroke (ischemic, 3 to 11 weeks before), and motor impairment, 18 patients underwent solely proprioceptive rehabilitation, the other 17 dual task exercises. The study assessed autonomy using Barthel Index, fall risk with Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), balance through Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Tinetti test. After two months, significant improvements were recorded in Barthel Index, BBS (p<0.0001), Tinetti test (p<0.0001 in dual task group, p=0.0029 in single task group), and TUG (p=0.0052 in dual task group, p=0.0020 in single task group) in both groups. Comparing the two groups, dual task group showed a significant difference in Tinetti balance assessment (p=0.0052), between the total score of Tinetti test and TUG in single (p=0.0271), and dual task (p=0.0235). Likewise, Tinetti gait test was significantly related to TUG in single (p=0.0536), and dual task (p=0.0466), while Tinetti balance test to Barthel Index (p=0.0394), BBS (p<0.0001), and TUG in single (p=0.0219), and dual task (p=0.0196). Lastly, there is a positive correlation of the use of aids with BBS (p=0.0074), and total score of Tinetti test (p=0.0160). In subacute stroke, goal-oriented proprioceptive training improved balance, but only partially autonomy. Furthermore, the use of aids after dual-task exercises improved recovery of balance, but did not reduced falls.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and its Association with Balance and Proprioception: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a prevalent condition characterized by anterior knee pain, significantly affecting individuals' balance and proprioception. Despite its commonality, the relationship between PFPS and these functional impairments remains inadequately explored. Previous studies have suggested a link, but comprehensive analyses incorporating balance, proprioception, and PFPS are scarce. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between PFPS and deficits in balance and proprioception, emphasizing the potential for rehabilitation focused on these areas to improve patient outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 103 participants diagnosed with PFPS, utilizing non-probability convenience sampling at the Out-Patient Department of Physical Therapy, Akbar Medical Complex, Mardan, Pakistan. Participants underwent assessments for balance (using static and dynamic balance tests) and proprioception (via joint position sense testing). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22, with chi-square tests to assess statistical associations between PFPS and the measured variables. Results: Among the participants, 60.2% were males, and 39.8% were females, with an injured limb distribution of 30.1% for both the left and right legs and 39.8% for both legs. The duration of symptoms varied, with 51.5% experiencing symptoms for 1-3 months. Proprioception degree angles showed mean values of 37.5728 (SD=3.76933) for the right limb and 38.4272 (SD=5.81681) for the left limb. Chi-square tests revealed significant impairments in balance and proprioception among individuals with PFPS (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The study confirmed a significant association between PFPS and impairments in balance and proprioception. These findings support the integration of balance and proprioceptive training into rehabilitation programs for PFPS patients, potentially improving symptoms and functional outcomes.

The effects of proprioceptive exercise training on physical fitness and performance of soccer skills in young soccer players.

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of proprioceptive exercise training on soccer skills and physical fitness in young soccer players. Nineteen young soccer players participated in the study. Participants were divided into proprioceptive exercises training (PT) and control (Cont) groups. The physical fitness and soccer skill performance test assessed at pre- and posttraining. Balance ability and power significantly improved in both groups after 8 weeks of training (P<0.05). Dribble in the PT group was similar between pre- and posttraining, with a statistically significant difference in the Cont group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences within and between groups according to training in the left and right feet for juggling. The PT and Cont groups did not differ significantly regarding short passes posttraining. However, a significant improvement in long passes was observed in the PT group after training period (P<0.05). Shooting was no different between and within the groups. In conclusion, these inconsistent findings are thought to be due to the applied exercise method, training duration, and the specificity of the physical growth period of the young players. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the frequency and time of proprioceptive exercise training and apply factors for cognitive ability improvement to training programs for young soccer players in future studies. These studies could suggest appropriate training methods necessary to improve the performance of young soccer players.

Performance Analysis and Optimization Design of a Dual-Mode Reconfigurable Ankle Joint Parallel Rehabilitation Mechanism

In this study, a dual-mode reconfigurable parallel ankle joint rehabilitation mechanism is proposed to meet the needs of patients in different ankle rehabilitation stages. This mechanism can switch between the 1T2R (where R represents rotation and T represents translation) and 2T1R motion modes. The screw theory and the modified G-K formula were used to analyze and verify the degree of freedom of the mechanism. The non-parasitic motion characteristics were analyzed by examining the topological structure of the mechanism. An inverse kinematics model was established using the closed-loop vector method, and the mechanism’s singularity was analyzed based on the Jacobian matrix. The Jacobian matrix and the numerical method were used to compare and analyze the workspace index, the rotational dexterity index and the load capacity performance index before and after the introduction of branched chains with actuation redundancy. A particle swarm optimization algorithm was used to optimize the geometric dimensional parameters of the mechanism. The results show that the mechanism exhibits the characteristics of a parallel mechanism without parasitic motion in the two motion modes. Using branched chains with actuation redundancy can significantly improve the rotational dexterity and load capacity performance index, without affecting the workspace index. Compared to the original mechanism, the kinematic performance of the optimized mechanism is significantly improved. It is concluded that the proposed mechanism can meet the needs of ankle joint activity training in the 1T2R motion mode and the needs of ankle joint proprioception training in the 2T1R motion mode, which can better meet the needs of patients in different rehabilitation stages.

An old approach to a novel problem: effect of combined balance therapy on virtual reality induced motion sickness: a randomized, placebo controlled, double-blinded study

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to investigate the impact of a rehabilitation program aimed at addressing vestibular and proprioceptive deficits, which are believed to underlie the pathophysiology of motion sickness.MethodsA total of 121 medical students with motion sickness participated in this study and were randomly divided into intervention (n = 60) and placebo control (n = 61) groups. The intervention group underwent combined balance, proprioception, and vestibular training three times a week for 4 weeks, while the control group received placebo training. The study assessed various measurements, including the Virtual reality sickness questionnaire (VRSQ), tolerance duration, enjoyment level measured by VAS, stability levels using Biodex, and balance with the Flamingo balance test (FBT). All measurements were conducted both at baseline and 4 weeks later.ResultsThere was no significant difference in pre-test scores between the intervention and control groups, suggesting a similar baseline in both groups (p > 0.05). The results showed a significant improvement in VRSQ, tolerance duration, VAS, Biodex, and FBT scores in the intervention group (p < 0.05). While, the control group showed a significant increase only in VAS scores after 4 weeks of training (p < 0.05). A statistically significant improvement was found between the groups for VRSQ (p < 0.001), tolerance duration (p < 0.001), VAS (p < 0.001), Biodex (p = 0.015), and FBT scores (p < 0.05), in favor of the intervention group.ConclusionsA combined balance training program for motion sickness proves to be effective in reducing motion sickness symptoms, enhancing user enjoyment, and extending the usage duration of virtual reality devices while improving balance and stability. In contrast, placebo training did not alter motion sickness levels. These findings offer valuable insights for expanding the usage of virtual reality, making it accessible to a broader population.

Balancing act: Unraveling the link between muscle strength, proprioception, and stability in unilateral hip osteoarthritis.

The objectives of this study are to compare hip muscle strength, hip joint proprioception, and functional balance between individuals with unilateral hip OA and asymptomatic individuals and to examine the relationships among these variables in the hip OA population. In a prospective cross-sectional study, 122 participants (unilateral Hip OA: n = 56, asymptomatic: n = 56) were assessed at the CAMS/KKU musculoskeletal Physical Therapy laboratory. Ethical standards were upheld throughout the research, with informed consent obtained. Hip muscle strength was measured using a hand-held dynamometer, hip joint proprioception with a digital inclinometer, and functional balance using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Hip OA individuals exhibited significantly lower muscle strength and proprioceptive accuracy, and poorer functional balance than controls (p < 0.003). Correlation analyses revealed a positive correlation between muscle strength and BBS scores (r = 0.38 to 0.42) and a negative correlation with TUG test times (r = -0.36 to -0.41). Hip joint reposition sense (JRS) in flexion showed a negative correlation with balance (r = -0.46), while JRS in abduction was positively correlated (r = 0.46). The study highlights the clinical importance of muscle strength and proprioception in functional balance among individuals with unilateral hip OA. The results support the incorporation of muscle strengthening and proprioceptive training in interventions to improve balance and mobility in this population.

The Injury Mechanism of Achilles Tendon Rupture in Professional Athletes: A Video Analysis Study.

In professional athletes, Achilles tendon ruptures are devastating injuries, often resulting in season loss or decreased return to sports level. We aimed to perform a comprehensive video analysis to describe the mechanisms of Achilles tendon rupture as well as body posture in professional athletes. We hypothesized that Achilles tendon ruptures in professional athletes develop with a specific injury mechanism and that body posture at the time of injury varies by sport. Of 114 identified Achilles tendon ruptures that occurred in professional athletes between 1970 and 2020, 42 with adequate video data were analyzed for injury mechanism, body posture, and player and sport characteristics by three independent reviewers. Mean ± SD age of the 42 athletes (41 men and 1 woman) was 28.4 ± 4.26 years. Eighteen athletes played basketball (42.9%), 14 football (33.3%), five soccer (11.9%), three baseball (7.1%), and two rugby (4.8%). Thirty-five patients (83.3%) had noncontact injuries. The most frequent months of injury were January (16.7%) and October (14.3%). During Achilles tendon rupture, the ankle was in dorsiflexion, the body was bent forward, the knee and hip were in extension, and the foot was in a neutral position. Most injuries occurred during take-off/acceleration (40.5%) or stop and turn (38.5%) maneuvers. In professional athletes, the Achilles tendon most often ruptures during take-off/acceleration. The most common position during rupture is the trunk in flexion, the knee and hip in extension, and the ankle in dorsiflexion. This information can guide professional athletes in terms of physical therapy techniques, including neuromuscular training, proprioception, and balance training specific to preventing Achilles tendon rupture.

Efficacy of Proprioceptive Training and Conventional Training in Reducing Pain and Improving Functional Activity for people with Lateral Ligament Injury

Background : Most athletes who participate in sports experience lateral ligament injury. Lateral ligament damageis one of the most frequent ankle ailments.The study was developed to determine the efficacy of proprioceptivetraining and conventional training in reducing pain and improving functional activity with lateral ligament injury.Purpose: To compare the efficacy of proprioceptive training and conventional training in reducing pain andimproving functional activity with lateral ligament injury.Methods : This study is an experimental study.A total of 40 subjects participated in the study based on inclusionand exclusion criteria were taken from prism health care. The subjects willing to participate were dividedinto two separate groups as Group A (20 subjects) received proprioceptive training and Group B (20 subject)received conventional training. All were assessed with Numerical pain rating scale and Foot and ankle abilitymeasures. This exercise was given for 2 weeks , a period lasting for 45 to 60 minutes 10 reps, 3sets. Pre and posttest values are calculated and tabulated. The entire process was conducted from November 2022 to March 2023.Result : According to statistical analysis Proprioceptive training is effective in reducing pain with patients withlateral ligaments injury with p value of &lt;0.0001.Conclusion : This study finally concluded that proprioceptive training has a high impact in reducing pain withpatients with lateral ligaments injury.

Sensorimotor and proprioceptive exercise programs to improve balance in older adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

The primary aim of this study was to systematically review and meta-analyze the impact of sensorimotor and proprioceptive exercises on balance in older adults. We also sought to define how researchers describe proprioceptive and sensory-motor training and their respective protocols. The review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, with searches performed in March 2023. Both authors carried out independent searches using the PubMed and PEDro databases. From a total of 320 identified records, 12 studies were deemed eligible for meta-analysis after screening and removal of duplicates. The average PEDro score was 5.11 ± 1.11 indicating overall fair quality of studies. Common outcome measures included the Berg balance scale, Timed up and go test, Tinetti balance scale, Functional reach test and various single-leg stance tests. All outcomes were significantly improved by the interventions (standard mean difference = 0.65 - 1.29), with little difference between proprioceptive and sensorimotor training. However, the quality of evidence ranged from "very low" to "low" based on GRADE guidelines, suggesting further high-quality studies are needed. This review underscores the potential benefits of sensorimotor and proprioceptive exercises for enhancing balance in older adults, while also highlighting the ambiguity and inconsistency regarding the usage of the terms proprioceptive and sensorimotor training.

Current Panorama and Challenges in Preventing Ankle Injuries in Athletes

Introduction: The review addresses ankle injuries in athletes, highlighting their prevalence and impact on sports performance. Injuries, such as sprains and fractures, result from a variety of factors, including direct trauma and sudden movements. Prevention is crucial and involves specific training, use of appropriate equipment and innovative strategies. Objective: Check current challenges in preventing ankle injuries in athletes. Methods: This study constitutes a systematic review, classified as exploratory and descriptive. The preparation of the research was a bibliographical search in electronic databases on methods associated with RSL (Systematic Literature Review) and the applications of SMARTER (Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique using Exploiting Rankings). The study methodology is a systematic, exploratory and descriptive review, using qualitative and quantitative methods. The bibliographic search covered several databases, with well-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data analysis was conducted by three independent researchers. Results and Discussion: The results revealed 399 articles, 11 of which were included in the review. Various studies addressed diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic methods. Interventions such as weight-bearing MRI, neuromuscular training programs, low-friction adhesives and proprioceptive training stand out. The understanding of radiographic patterns and the analysis of innovative techniques, which enrich the preventive approach. Conclusion: The conclusion highlights important insights, highlighting the need for more comprehensive research, standardization and long-term studies. Despite limitations, promising advances indicate a positive shift in ankle injury prevention, requiring a collaborative approach between researchers, healthcare professionals and athletes.

Balance Training and Shooting Performance: The Role of Load and the Unstable Surface.

Military and law enforcement members' shooting ability is influenced by their postural balance, which affects their performance and survivability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a proprioception training program (standing or walking on unstable surfaces) on postural balance and shooting performance. Twenty participants, divided into two groups, completed 60 shots in a shooting simulator while standing, before and after a 4-week proprioception training program. One group (n = 10) followed the training program (EXP), while the other group followed the regular military academy program (CON). The shooting was conducted under four conditions: without load on a stable surface, with load on a stable surface, without load on an unstable surface, and with load on an unstable surface. The findings reveal that the training program had a significant impact on the EXP, improving their balance (p < 0.01). Additionally, only in the EXP, shooting score and the percentage center of gravity increased (p < 0.01) and the stability of the shots, measured by holding time on the target, doubled from 2.2 to 4.5 s (p < 0.01). These improvements were more pronounced when participants had a load and/or were on an unstable surface. In conclusion, a proprioception training program could be beneficial for improving postural balance and shooting performance.

Effects of Resistance and Proprioceptive Training on an Athletic Population with Chronic Ankle Instability: A Scoping Review

&lt;b&gt;Background:&lt;/b&gt; One in three athletes who suffer a sprain will end up with chronic ankle instability (CAI) due to re-injury or inadequate recovery, with symptoms that can last for more than 12 months. Resistance and proprioceptive training have been shown to have a positive effect on the rehabilitation of CAI, improving perceived instability, balance, functional ability, strength, and quality of life. However, the right type of training, dosage, and intensity are currently unclear on many points. &lt;b&gt;Aim:&lt;/b&gt; The aim of this review is to investigate current literature addressing the effects of resistance and proprioceptive training on improving the symptoms of athletes with CAI. The individual efficacy of each training type (resistance and proprioceptive) was investigated and compared to each other. Furthermore, it was examined whether the combined application of both training methods within a single treatment regimen provides greater benefits than their separate use. &lt;b&gt;Method:&lt;/b&gt; The MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, PEDro, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and EMBASE databases were searched using different combinations of the following key words: chronic ankle instability, athletes, proprioceptive exercise, resistance exercise, and rehabilitation. The review included clinical studies that were applied to professional or amateur athletes with CAI from 1998 to the present. These studies included protocols for resistance and/or proprioceptive exercise programs that were applied independently or in combination with other therapy regimens. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; Eighteen clinical trials were included in this review: three on resistance training, five on proprioceptive training, and ten on both. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) was used to assess the quality of all articles. &lt;b&gt;Discussion:&lt;/b&gt; Both types of training, resistance and proprioceptive, improve perceived instability, static and dynamic balance, functional ability, strength and, quality of life in the athletic population with CAI. However, better results appear to be derived from combined protocols that include both types of exercises. &lt;b&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/b&gt; Four to six weeks of a combined resistance and proprioceptive exercise program may increase the strength of the ankle joint muscles, dynamic balance, functional ability and quality of life in athletes with CAI.

Investigating the Effect of Addition of Cervical Proprioceptive Training to Conventional Physiotherapy on Visual, Vestibular and Proprioceptive Dependency of Postural Control in Patients with Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

While cervical proprioception deficit has been suggested as a contributing factor to clinical consequences of chronic non-specific neck pain (CNSNP), the effect of addressing such impairments on postural control strategies has remained unexplored. The aim of this study was to compare the response of the postural control system to alteration of sensory afferents in CNSNP with asymptomatic individuals. Furthermore, we examined whether proprioceptive training would yield superior outcomes to routine physiotherapy for improvement of postural control, pain and disability. Center of pressure (CoP) variables of sixty CNSNP patients equally distributed in any of the proprioception-specific or conventional physiotherapy groups and 30 asymptomatic participants were evaluated under four standing conditions:1) normal, 2) foam, 3) cervical extension/eyes open and 4) cervical extension/eyes closed standing. CoP anteroposterior range and anteroposterior and mediolateral velocity in patients were significantly higher than the control group under condition 2 (P<0.05). Patients also demonstrated lower anteroposterior lyapunov exponent under conditions 2 and 4 (P<0.05). Both interventions significantly decreased anteroposterior range and anteroposterior velocity(P<0.05). Anteroposterior lyapunov exponent also increased under condition 2 (P<0.05).. After the interventions, CoP anteroposterior range and anteroposterior velocity were significantly lower in the proprioceptive exercise group than the conventional physiotherapy group (P<0.05). Anteroposterior lyapunov exponent was also significantly higher in the proprioceptive exercise group (P<0.05).This while there was no significant difference between these patients and control group participants in any of the CoP variables after intervention. Our results rejected the hypothesis that impaired neck proprioception in the presence of CNSNP is compensated by overweighting other sources of sensory afferent information. The findings also revealed that while proprioceptive exercises successfully returned postural strategies of CNSNP patients to those in asymptomatic participants, they do not add to clinical recovery of these patients.

Effect of Conventional Physiotherapeutic Techniques on Post-Operative Facial Palsy: A Case Study

This case study highlights the benefits of combining multiple conventional physiotherapeutic methods for post-operative facial palsy with an evidence-based treatment plan using the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health ICF. A middle-aged female reported with a primary complaint of facial weakness experienced post the surgical removal of parotid gland due to pleomorphic adenomatous growth. Treatment was offered at the out-patient physiotherapy department and each session lasted for 45 minutes with exercises like proprioceptive training facial neuromuscular rehabilitation mime therapy and sensory re-education incorporated as a part of the patients dose-based physical treatment. With outcome measurements Sunnybrook Facial Grading System indicating improvement by 27 points and Facial Disability Index showing improvement by 41 points and a noticeably higher level of confidence the patient demonstrated a considerable reduction in discomfort and improvement of mobility prior to discharge. The case study focuses on how an evidence-based plan of conventional treatment strategies ensures better prognosis for a patient with post-operative facial palsy.

Effectiveness of Proprioceptive Body Vibration Rehabilitation on Motor Function and Activities of Daily Living in Stroke Patients with Impaired Sensory Function.

Stroke patients experience impaired sensory and motor functions, which impact their activities of daily living (ADL). The current study was designed to determine the best neurorehabilitation method to improve clinical outcomes, including the trunk-impairment scale (TIS), Berg balance scale (BBS), Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA), and modified Barthel index (MBI), in stroke patients with impaired sensory function. Forty-four stroke survivors consistently underwent proprioceptive body vibration rehabilitation training (PBVT) or conventional physical therapy (CPT) for 30 min/session, 5 days a week for 8 weeks. Four clinical outcome variables-the FMA, TIS, BBS, and MBI-were examined pre- and post-intervention. We observed significant differences in the FMA, BBS, and MBI scores between the PBVT and CPT groups. PBVT and CPT showed significant improvements in FMA, BBS, TIS, and MBI scores. However, PVBT elicited more favorable results than CPT in patients with stroke and impaired sensory function. Collectively, this study provides the first clinical evidence of optimal neurorehabilitation in stroke patients with impaired sensory function.

The Effect of Proprioceptive Training on Hand Function and Activity Limitation After Open Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Study

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of proprioceptive training on hand function and activity limitation in patients undergoing open carpal tunnel release surgery. DesignRandomized controlled study. SettingA university hospital. ParticipantsThirty patients were included in the study and randomized to proprioceptive training (PT) and conventional rehabilitation (CR) groups. InterventionOne week after surgery, both groups received CR for 6 weeks. All participants were asked to perform home-based exercises daily in 3 sets with 10 repetitions. For the PT group, a 6-step PT program was conducted starting from Week 6. Both groups received face-to-face interventions twice a week for 12 weeks. Main Outcome MeasuresThe outcome measures included the Purdue Pegboard Test (PPT), the joint position sense test (JPST), the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire, and the Patient-Specific Functional Scale. In total, 3 assessments were performed (at 1, 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively). ResultsIn the PT group, the results for PPT were statistically significant (P<.05). Although there was a greater decrease in the absolute angular error value (JPST) of the PT group compared to the CR group, the difference was nonsignificant (P>.05). Similar reductions in activity limitation were seen in both groups (PT: 176%, CR: 175%). Symptom severity decreased by 40% in the PT group vs 32% in the CR group. The effect sizes were larger for the changes between the second and third assessments in the PT group compared to the CR group in all parameters tested. ConclusionWhen applied after carpal tunnel release surgery, PT may potentially to improve hand functions, reduce activity limitation, increase participation in activities of daily living, and thus improve quality of life.