Kinesio Taping for Pain, Median Nerve Morphology, and Quality of Life in Patients With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist. It can result in pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and difficulty performing daily activities. Conservative treatments, including therapeutic exercises and kinesio taping, are frequently used; however, evidence regarding the effects of kinesio taping on both nerve morphology and clinical outcomes remains limited. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to evaluate whether adding kinesio taping to a standard exercise program provides greater benefits than exercise alone in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: an intervention group receiving kinesio taping plus nerve and tendon gliding exercises, or a control group receiving the exercise program alone. Outcome measures include ultrasonographic assessment of the median nerve anteroposterior and transverse diameters, pain intensity measured with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and symptom severity and functional status evaluated using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire. Assessments will be performed before treatment and after the 4-week intervention period. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of kinesio taping as an adjunct to conservative rehabilitation for individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome and may contribute to improving treatment strategies for this condition.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 25 to 65 years. * Clinical diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome confirmed by clinical examination and ultrasonography. * Symptoms of numbness, pain, or tingling in the affected hand for at least 3 months. * Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score of 3 or higher. * Functional limitation related to carpal tunnel syndrome. * Ability to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Previous wrist surgery or major trauma involving the affected wrist. * Cervical radiculopathy, polyneuropathy, or proximal median nerve entrapment. * Corticosteroid injection or physical therapy for the affected wrist within the previous 3 months. * Pregnancy. * Known allergy to kinesio tape or skin conditions preventing tape application. * Severe systemic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus). * Cognitive impairment affecting study participation.