The Effect of Nursing Rehabilitation Program on Symptoms Severity and Functional Status in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Undergoing Surgery.

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common upper extremity peripheral
compression neuropathy and typically occurs because of the compression and damage of the median nerve
between the transverse carpal ligament and flexor tendons in the carpal tunnel of the wrist. Objectives: was to
assess the effect of the rehabilitation program on symptoms severity and functional status in patients with carpal
tunnel syndrome undergoing surgery. Setting: The study was conducted at the Neurosurgery Department of
Alexandria Main University Hospital and the affiliated Outpatient Clinic. Subjects: This study comprised a
convenient sample of 40 adult patients admitted to the above-mentioned setting and diagnosed with carpal tunnel
syndrome undergoing surgery. The study subjects were divided randomly into two equal groups; a study group,
consisting of 20 adult patients who received the program and control consisting of 20 adult patients who received
the routine hospital care only. Tools: Three tools were used Tool I: Patient’s Sociodemographic Characteristics
and clinical data tool, Tool II: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire, and Tool III The Disabilities of the Arm,
Shoulder, and Hand. Results: There were highly statistically significant differences between the study and
control regarding pain intensity 1 month after the surgery. It was found that significant improvement among the
study group, after fourteen days and one month postoperatively concerning the disabilities of the arm, shoulder,
and hand. A statistically significant improvement in the symptom severity and functional status was noticed
among the study group. Conclusion: Applying for a rehabilitation program significantly enhanced the studied
patients' pain intensity, disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand., symptom severity, and functional status
postoperatively than their control. Keywords - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Nursing Rehabilitation Program,
Symptoms Severity, Functional Status