Effects of Wrist Guard Microcurrent Stimulation Therapy on Pain, Range of Motion, and Muscle Strength in Physically Active Older Women with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Background: Microcurrent electrical stimulation (MES) is a therapeutic approach in treating carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and similar musculoskeletal conditions. MES exerts its effect primarily at the cellular level and promotes rapid healing to damaged areas. The literature shows sparse data regarding its treatment effects limited to tennis elbow. No studies have examined MES effects on pain level, grip strength, and upper limb function in CTS patients. Purpose: This study examines the impact of wearing a microcurrent wrist guard for two weeks on pain, range of motion (ROM), and muscle strength in older women with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods: 12 women between the ages of 55 and 75 (78.9±14.8 years) diagnosed with CTS were recruited for this cross-over design study; they also participated in repeat measurements after a 2-week washout period. Measurement items included grip strength using TKK-5401 (TAKEI, JAPAN), while wrist dorsiflexion and plantar flexion were assessed for ROM. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) reported subjective perception of pain categorized into varying levels (0 = no pain; 5 = very painful). VAS was measured at intervals before and two weeks after wearing the MES wrist guard. The microcurrent wrist guard (Fortium; Microcurrent Wrist Band. Korea) provided 300 μA of current to relieve inflammation of muscles, fascia, and trigger points about the affected area. Results: After two weeks of MES, VAS in the MES group decreased significantly (p<.020) from 3.40±0.27 points (before) to 2.80±0.62 points (after), while the control group showed no difference; ROM between groups showed no difference; grip strength of the MES group increased significantly (p<.001) from 19.11±9.74kg (before) to 21.38±8.46kg (after). Conclusion: MES wrist guard can serve conveniently as an auxiliary therapy to decrease carpel tunnel symptoms in patients diagnosed with this clinical condition.