The effectiveness of acupuncture in treating carpal tunnel syndrome: A literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common peripheral nerve entrapment neuropathy, significantly affecting upper limb function and work productivity. First described by Paget in 1854, CTS is primarily diagnosed clinically based on symptoms such as numbness and tingling, often worsening at night, and positive provocative tests. Its pathophysiology involves increased pressure within the carpal tunnel, ischemia, inflammation, and genetic predispositions. Treatment options include conservative approaches like splinting and pharmacotherapy, as well as surgical decompression. Recently, minimally invasive methods such as acupuncture have gained attention, particularly in cases where conventional treatments are ineffective.

Aim: This article aims to review the pathophysiology and standard treatments of CTS, with a particular focus on assessing the role and effectiveness of acupuncture as a minimally invasive therapeutic alternative.

Review Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on the following keywords: acupuncture, carpal tunnel syndrome treatment, and pathophysiology of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Conclusion: Acupuncture-especially manual acupuncture and when combined with other interventions like splinting-shows promise in reducing CTS symptoms and improving functional outcomes. In some cases, it may be more effective than pharmacological treatments. Neuroimaging studies have indicated that acupuncture may trigger objective neurophysiological changes associated with symptom relief. However, the current quality of evidence is generally low or very low, underscoring the need for more rigorous, large-scale randomized controlled trials to better define its efficacy and establish standardized treatment protocol.