Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) remains the most prevalent entrapment neuropathy worldwide, characterized by median nerve compression at the wrist, leading to various sensorimotor disturbances. This comprehensive review synthesizes recent advances in CTS understanding and management, drawing on 2025 research developments. The global carpal tunnel release systems market is experiencing significant growth, with projections reaching USD 1,740 million by 2034. Notable progress has been made in diagnostic approaches, including ultrasound techniques and the recognition of extraterritorial symptoms. Treatment modalities have diversified, with emerging evidence supporting manual lymphatic drainage and osteopathic manipulative treatments alongside traditional approaches. This review also explores the socioeconomic impact of CTS, highlighting reduced work participation rates among affected individuals. The integration of artificial intelligence into CTS management represents an evolving frontier that promises to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. These collective developments underscore the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to CTS management, emphasizing the need for individualized treatment strategies that consider both peripheral and potential central mechanisms involved in symptom manifestation.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the most common entrapment neuropathy affecting the upper extremity, is characterized by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel of the wrist (Meng, 2025). The condition presents with a constellation of symptoms including pain, paresthesia, sensory disturbances, and weakness in the hand and wrist, often significantly impacting daily functioning and quality of life (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). With an estimated prevalence of 3.8% in the general population and a higher occurrence rate in women, CTS represents a significant public health concern (Meng, 2025).
The pathophysiology of CTS involves demyelination of the median nerve at the wrist level, leading to alterations in motor and sensory latency and reduced nerve conduction velocity. These changes manifest clinically as sensory deficits, particularly in the second and third fingers, with the earliest and most frequent changes typically detected in the third finger (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). The pressure within the carpal tunnel, which normally ranges between 2 and 10 mm Hg, can increase with certain wrist movements, exacerbating symptoms (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
Recent research has expanded our understanding of CTS beyond localized wrist pathology. Studies have identified extraterritorial symptoms, suggesting potential central nervous system involvement in symptom generation and maintenance (Schmid, 2025). Additionally, the socioeconomic impact of CTS has gained recognition, with evidence indicating reduced work participation among affected individuals (Hoffmann Aagaard et al., 2025).
The management of CTS continues to evolve, with a range of conservative and surgical approaches available. Conservative treatments include wrist orthoses, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and emerging modalities such as manual lymphatic drainage and osteopathic manipulative treatment (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025; Zhan et al., 2025). Surgical interventions, primarily open or endoscopic carpal tunnel release, remain the standard for severe or refractory cases (Precedence Research, 2025).
The carpal tunnel release systems market is experiencing significant growth, reflecting the high prevalence of CTS and the increasing adoption of advanced surgical techniques. According to recent market analysis, the global carpal tunnel release systems market size was USD 980 million in 2025 and is projected to reach approximately USD 1,740 million by 2034, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.60% (Precedence Research, 2025).
This comprehensive review aims to synthesize recent advances in CTS understanding and management, drawing on 2025 research developments. By exploring epidemiological trends, diagnostic approaches, treatment modalities, socioeconomic implications, and technological innovations, this review provides a holistic perspective on the current state of CTS management and future directions in this field.
Carpal tunnel syndrome affects approximately 3.8% of the general population, with significant variation observed across different demographic groups (Meng, 2025). In the United States, the prevalence of CTS is estimated to affect approximately 1 to 3 individuals per 1,000 people, according to the 2022 National Institutes of Health (NIH) report (Precedence Research, 2025). Gender disparities in CTS prevalence are well-documented, with the condition occurring three times more frequently in women than in men (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
Occupational risk factors play a significant role in CTS development. The condition is considered one of the most prevalent work-related musculoskeletal disorders, particularly among employees performing repetitive manual work (Precedence Research, 2025). Economic growth and industrial development across regions, especially in Asia-Pacific nations, have created new occupations that may result in higher levels of musculoskeletal conditions, including CTS (Precedence Research, 2025).
Specific occupations associated with increased CTS risk include dental healthcare workers and other professions requiring repetitive hand movements (Precedence Research, 2025). The "Health at a Glance: Asia/Pacific 2022" report published by the World Health Organization highlights the relationship between economic growth, emerging occupations, and the increasing prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions like CTS (Precedence Research, 2025).
Beyond occupational factors, several non-occupational risk factors contribute to CTS development. These include prolonged computer use, pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes and arthritis, and aging (Precedence Research, 2025). According to the NIH 2024 report, the prevalence of nerve compression in the wrist affects around 1-5% of the general population (Precedence Research, 2025).
The increasing prevalence of CTS is attributed to various factors, including rising awareness among patients, which has triggered both preventive measures and increased demand for effective treatment solutions (Precedence Research, 2025). This growing awareness, coupled with the aging population and the widespread presence of occupational risk factors, contributes to the continued significance of CTS as a public health concern.
The pathophysiology of CTS centers on compression and traction of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel. This compression can lead to venous flow obstruction and subsequent edema in the region (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). The resulting edema, caused by ischemia and nerve damage, can progress to fibrotic changes and vascular sclerosis with increasing duration and intensity of compression (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
At the neurological level, compression of the median nerve causes demyelination, leading to changes in motor and sensory latency and decreased nerve conduction velocity (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). These neurophysiological changes manifest as sensory deficits, particularly in the second and third fingers, with the earliest and most frequent changes detected in the third finger (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
The clinical presentation of CTS includes pain, paresthesia, sensory disturbances, and weakness in the hand and wrist (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). In the early stages, pain may have a burning quality and often wakes patients at night (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). These symptoms can significantly impact physical function and daily living activities (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
According to distribution patterns of symptoms, CTS typically affects the median nerve innervation territory in the hand, involving the first three and a half of the fourth finger (Schmid, 2025). However, it is important to note that symptom distribution can vary, and the degree of nerve damage at the wrist is reflected in the pattern of paresthesias experienced by patients (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
Recent research has challenged the traditional view of CTS as a purely peripheral neuropathy. Studies indicate that up to 70% of patients with CTS experience symptoms outside the typical median nerve territory, suggesting involvement of central nociceptive mechanisms (Schmid, 2025). This phenomenon, known as extraterritorial spread of symptoms, has prompted exploration of central sensitization in CTS pathophysiology.
Central sensitization implies modification of peripheral impulses, leading to either a decreased pain threshold or an increased response to afferent stimuli (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). Repeated stimulation causes persistent discharges, leading to expansion of the receptive field of dorsal horn neurons (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). These repeated impulses on C fibers amplify sensory signals in spinal neurons that relay messages to the brain (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
Schmid (2025) investigated whether patients with CTS have a generalized disturbance of somatosensory function that could explain widespread symptoms. While traditional quantitative sensory testing did not reveal differences in pain thresholds when coexisting neck and arm disorders were strictly excluded, patients with CTS rated the pain elicited during testing significantly higher than healthy participants, not only in the median nerve area but also over the neck and lower leg (Schmid, 2025). This finding suggests that even when localized to the hand, CTS may involve altered central pain processing.
Understanding the potential role of central mechanisms in CTS is crucial for developing comprehensive treatment approaches that address both peripheral and central aspects of the condition. As Schmid (2025) concludes, "it is about time to start thinking outside the wrist in patients with CTS."
Diagnosis of CTS begins with a thorough clinical evaluation, including assessment of the patient's medical history and physical examination. Key clinical findings include the presence of sensory symptoms in the median nerve distribution, nocturnal exacerbation of symptoms, and positive provocative tests such as Tinel's sign and Phalen's test (Meng, 2025).
Clinical diagnosis may be challenging due to the variability in symptom presentation and the potential presence of extraterritorial symptoms (Schmid, 2025). The distribution of paresthesias, as noted by Akdeniz Leblebicier et al. (2025), reflects the degree of nerve damage at the wrist, with early symptoms typically manifesting in the third finger.
Electrodiagnostic testing remains the gold standard for confirming CTS diagnosis and assessing disease severity. These tests evaluate the function of the nervous system by measuring motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity, amplitude, and latency (Meng, 2025). Based on electrodiagnostic findings, CTS is typically classified as mild, moderate, or severe, guiding treatment decisions (Meng, 2025).
Akdeniz Leblebicier et al. (2025) utilized electrodiagnostic examinations to diagnose mild-moderate CTS in their study participants. They specifically assessed motor velocity, amplitude, and latency, as well as sensory velocity and latency of the median nerve. These parameters provided objective measures of nerve function and served as outcome indicators for treatment efficacy.
Ultrasound has emerged as a valuable diagnostic tool for CTS, offering a non-invasive means to visualize the carpal tunnel anatomy and assess median nerve morphology. Zhan et al. (2025) employed ultrasound to quantify anatomical changes in carpal tunnel dimensions following osteopathic manipulative treatment, demonstrating the utility of this imaging modality in both diagnosis and treatment evaluation.
Ultrasound measurements can include carpal tunnel depth, width, cross-sectional area, and transverse carpal ligament length (Zhan et al., 2025). These parameters provide insights into the structural changes associated with CTS and can help monitor treatment response. The reproducibility of sonographic measurements of the median nerve has been established, supporting the reliability of this diagnostic approach (Zhan et al., 2025).
While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is less commonly used in routine CTS diagnosis, it can provide detailed visualization of soft tissue structures and is particularly valuable in complex cases or when surgical planning requires additional anatomical information (Zhan et al., 2025).
Assessment of pain pressure threshold using an algometer has gained attention as a method to evaluate sensory changes in CTS. Akdeniz Leblebicier et al. (2025) incorporated algometer measurements at different anatomical sites, including the transverse carpal ligament, distal radioulnar joint, and extensor digitorum communis muscle, to assess treatment-induced changes in pain sensitivity.
This approach allows for quantification of mechanical pain sensitivity and can help identify both local and widespread sensory alterations in CTS patients. Increased pain pressure thresholds following treatment indicate improved pain modulation and reduced mechanical hypersensitivity (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
Orthotic devices, particularly wrist splints, are a cornerstone of conservative CTS management. These devices aim to maintain the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure within the carpal tunnel and consequently decreasing pressure on the median nerve (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). By preventing extreme wrist movements, orthoses help mitigate symptoms and may slow disease progression in mild to moderate cases.
Akdeniz Leblebicier et al. (2025) incorporated orthosis therapy in their study, either alone or in combination with manual lymphatic drainage. Their findings indicated that orthosis use resulted in significant improvements in Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire scores, reflecting enhanced function and reduced symptom severity. Moreover, orthosis therapy led to significant changes in motor velocity and amplitude of the median nerve, suggesting improved neurophysiological function (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) represents a novel conservative approach for CTS management. This manual technique aims to increase lymphatic flow and has been shown to create positive effects on both the nervous and lymphatic systems (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). MLD reduces the firing rate of sympathetic nerves, increases skin resistance, and activates skin receptors, concurrently stimulating the lateral region of the spinal cord and suppressing pain (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
In their randomized controlled study, Akdeniz Leblebicier et al. (2025) investigated the efficacy of MLD combined with orthosis therapy compared to orthosis alone in patients with mild-to-moderate CTS. Their findings revealed that MLD significantly improved sensory conduction velocity, amplitude, and latency of the median nerve. Additionally, the MLD group demonstrated increased pain pressure thresholds at the level of the transverse carpal ligament and functional improvements over the 4-week treatment period (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025).
The authors concluded that MLD represents a promising new option for CTS treatment, offering effective results without requiring special tools (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025). This approach could be particularly valuable for patients seeking non-invasive, non-pharmacological interventions for CTS management.
Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is another emerging conservative approach for CTS. Zhan et al. (2025) investigated a novel technique called dorsal carpal arch muscle energy (DCA-ME), which focuses on the dorsal arch (trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate bones) and aims to redome the arch, round the tunnel, and increase its volume.
In their pilot study involving 25 healthy volunteers, Zhan et al. (2025) found that DCA-ME resulted in significant increases in carpal tunnel depth and cross-sectional area, as measured by ultrasound. These anatomical changes suggest that DCA-ME may alter the shape of the dorsal arch, potentially relieving pressure on the median nerve (Zhan et al., 2025).
While the study by Zhan et al. (2025) was conducted on asymptomatic individuals and represents preliminary evidence, it provides a foundation for future investigations of this technique in patients with CTS. The authors acknowledged limitations, including the small sample size, inclusion of only healthy wrists, the short period between manipulation and measurements, and challenges in ensuring consistent ultrasound measurement angles (Zhan et al., 2025).
Pharmacological interventions, particularly corticosteroid injections, remain a standard conservative treatment for CTS. These injections aim to reduce inflammation and swelling within the carpal tunnel, thereby alleviating pressure on the median nerve (Meng, 2025). Corticosteroids can be administered orally or through local injection, with the latter generally providing more targeted relief (Meng, 2025).
Interestingly, Podnar et al. (2016), as cited by Akdeniz Leblebicier et al. (2025), explored why local corticosteroid injections are effective in CTS but not in ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. This investigation highlights the importance of understanding the specific mechanisms underlying different entrapment neuropathies to optimize treatment approaches.
While pharmacological interventions can provide symptomatic relief, they typically do not address the underlying mechanical factors contributing to CTS. Therefore, they are often used in conjunction with other conservative measures or as a temporizing measure before considering surgical intervention in refractory cases (Meng, 2025).
Open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) remains a dominant surgical approach for CTS, holding a 59% market share in 2024 according to Precedence Research (2025). This traditional technique involves making an incision up to 2 inches across the wrist to cut the transverse carpal ligament, thereby reducing pressure on the median nerve (Precedence Research, 2025).
The simplicity of the procedure and established clinical evidence make OCTR a preferred method for many surgeons (Precedence Research, 2025). However, patients undergoing OCTR typically experience longer recovery times and higher levels of postoperative discomfort compared to minimally invasive approaches (Precedence Research, 2025).
Despite these limitations, OCTR continues to be widely utilized, particularly in complex cases or when extensive visualization of the surgical field is required. The procedure's reliability and long-term outcomes contribute to its continued prominence in CTS surgical management (Precedence Research, 2025).
Endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) represents an evolving surgical approach for CTS, expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034 (Precedence Research, 2025). This minimally invasive technique allows surgeons to view the transverse carpal ligament through small incisions using an endoscope, resulting in reduced scar tenderness and decreased recovery time compared to OCTR (Precedence Research, 2025).
Evidence indicates that ECTR provides surgical patients with both reduced discomfort and speedier healing processes (Precedence Research, 2025). The increasing interest in minimally invasive techniques aligns with patient expectations for minimal recovery time and better aesthetic results, driving the predicted increased usage of ECTR procedures in medical settings (Precedence Research, 2025).
In 2024, the FDA authorized the VECTR – Video Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release System to facilitate minimally invasive procedures that release carpal ligaments or fascia during endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgeries (Precedence Research, 2025). This regulatory approval reflects the growing acceptance and advancement of endoscopic approaches in CTS management.
The carpal tunnel release systems market is witnessing significant technological innovations, contributing to improved surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Advancements in roboticassisted surgical techniques are driving market growth by increasing demand for high-precision carpal tunnel release systems in hospitals and surgical centers (Precedence Research, 2025).
Moreover, the rising adoption of ultrasound-guided interventions is fueling market expansion by enhancing surgical accuracy and increasing the adoption of image-assisted carpal tunnel release systems (Precedence Research, 2025). These technological developments allow for more precise identification of anatomical structures and potentially reduce the risk of iatrogenic injuries during surgery.
Advancements in biodegradable implants and sutures are also propelling the market by improving patient recovery and increasing surgeon confidence in next-generation carpal tunnel release systems (Precedence Research, 2025). These innovations reflect the ongoing evolution of surgical approaches for CTS, with an emphasis on minimizing invasiveness while maximizing efficacy.
The global carpal tunnel release systems market demonstrates significant regional variations in terms of market share and growth potential. North America dominated the market with the largest share of 49% in 2024, attributed to the widespread presence of CTS, an aging population, and the abundance of innovative healthcare services facilitating early detection and treatment (Precedence Research, 2025).
In contrast, Asia Pacific is projected to host the fastest-growing market in the coming years, driven by rising medical knowledge about CTS and improved healthcare facilities in countries like China and India (Precedence Research, 2025). Economic development and urbanization in this region have led to the emergence of occupations involving repetitive hand tasks, contributing to increased CTS prevalence (Precedence Research, 2025).
Market growth is further supported by expanding telemedicine integration in postoperative care, growing healthcare investments in emerging economies, increasing preference for outpatient procedures, and higher insurance coverage for carpal tunnel treatments (Precedence Research, 2025). These factors collectively contribute to the projected market expansion from USD 980 million in 2025 to approximately USD 1,740 million by 2034 (Precedence Research, 2025).
The socioeconomic impact of CTS extends beyond direct healthcare costs to include reduced work participation and productivity losses. Hoffmann Aagaard et al. (2025) conducted a register-based nationwide longitudinal follow-up study in Denmark to examine the long-term work participation of patients with CTS referred to departments of occupational medicine.
Their findings revealed that while both CTS and contact dermatitis patients had high work participation before assessment, work participation decreased permanently for both groups during follow-up (Hoffmann Aagaard et al., 2025). Comparing women with CTS to women with contact dermatitis, odds ratios (OR) of low work participation score (WPS) were 2.56 and 1.68 one and five years after assessment, respectively (Hoffmann Aagaard et al., 2025). For men, ORs of low WPS were 2.01 and 1.27 at one and five years (Hoffmann Aagaard et al., 2025).
Moreover, the study reported increased odds of receiving permanent health-related public benefits during follow-up, with ORs of 2.10 for men and 1.97 for women with CTS compared to those with contact dermatitis (Hoffmann Aagaard et al., 2025). These findings underscore the significant long-term impact of CTS on work capacity and financial independence.
The delivery of CTS care is evolving, with a notable shift toward outpatient settings, particularly ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). According to Precedence Research (2025), the ASC segment is anticipated to grow with the highest compound annual growth rate during the studied years, reflecting changing healthcare delivery paradigms.
This shift aligns with the increasing preference for minimally invasive procedures, which match well with ASC operational design and result in reduced recovery periods and lower operating costs (Precedence Research, 2025). Patients often choose ASCs due to convenient outpatient environments and reduced waiting periods (Precedence Research, 2025).
Advancements in medical technology have enabled ASCs to perform procedures previously limited to hospital settings, expanding their service capabilities (Precedence Research, 2025). This trend is supported by healthcare policy changes, as evidenced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 2023 update that included additional procedures approved for ASCs, reflecting a movement toward higher acuity cases being managed in these settings (Precedence Research, 2025).
The economic burden of CTS encompasses direct medical costs, indirect costs related to lost productivity, and disability payments. While specific cost figures were not provided in the reviewed documents, Hoffmann Aagaard et al. (2025) highlighted the increased likelihood of CTS patients receiving permanent health-related public benefits, indicating substantial societal costs associated with the condition.
Cost-effectiveness considerations are increasingly important in CTS management decisions. The trend toward outpatient procedures and minimally invasive techniques reflects efforts to optimize resource utilization while maintaining or improving clinical outcomes (Precedence Research, 2025). Similarly, the development of non-invasive treatments, such as manual lymphatic drainage, which requires no special tools (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025), represents a potentially cost-effective approach to CTS management.
As healthcare systems globally face resource constraints, continued research into the cost-effectiveness of various CTS interventions is essential to inform policy decisions and clinical practice guidelines. This research should consider not only immediate treatment costs but also long-term outcomes, including work participation and quality of life measures.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into CTS management, offering potential advantages in diagnosis, treatment planning, and outcome prediction. According to Precedence Research (2025), medical procedures are achieving advanced functional enhancements through AI systems, as surgeons utilize AI for surgical solution development and operation.
In the carpal tunnel release systems market, robotic-assisted systems enable surgeons to achieve precision surgery with faster operations and lower human error risks (Precedence Research, 2025). Additionally, the analysis of large medical datasets through machine learning algorithms leads to patient-specific treatment options (Precedence Research, 2025).
Predictive analytics plays a critical role in detecting surgical complications ahead of operations, enabling doctors to take proactive action (Precedence Research, 2025). This application of AI has the potential to reduce complication rates and improve overall surgical outcomes in CTS management.
An emerging trend in CTS management is the adoption of a multidisciplinary approach that addresses both peripheral and central mechanisms potentially involved in symptom generation and maintenance. This approach recognizes the complexity of CTS pathophysiology, particularly in cases with extraterritorial symptoms that suggest central sensitization (Schmid, 2025).
By integrating perspectives from various specialties, including occupational medicine, neurology, hand surgery, physical therapy, and pain management, a multidisciplinary approach can provide comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plans for individuals with CTS. This collaborative model enables consideration of occupational factors, biomechanical issues, neurophysiological changes, and psychosocial aspects that may influence symptom expression and treatment response.
Despite significant advances in CTS understanding and management, several research gaps remain. The mechanisms underlying extraterritorial symptoms and potential central sensitization in CTS warrant further investigation to inform targeted interventions (Schmid, 2025). Additionally, long-term comparative studies of various treatment modalities, particularly emerging approaches like manual lymphatic drainage and osteopathic manipulative treatment, are needed to establish their place in the CTS management algorithm.
Future research should also explore predictor variables for treatment response, enabling more personalized treatment selection based on individual patient characteristics and presentation. The role of genetic factors in CTS susceptibility and progression represents another area requiring further elucidation.
Additionally, the development and validation of patient-reported outcome measures specific to CTS would enhance the assessment of treatment efficacy from the patient perspective. These measures should capture not only symptom severity and functional limitations but also broader impacts on quality of life and work participation.
This comprehensive review has synthesized recent advances in CTS understanding and management, drawing on 2025 research developments. The global burden of CTS remains substantial, with the carpal tunnel release systems market projected to reach USD 1,740 million by 2034 (Precedence Research, 2025). The condition significantly impacts work participation, with increased odds of reduced long-term work capacity and receipt of permanent health-related benefits among affected individuals (Hoffmann Aagaard et al., 2025).
Diagnostic approaches for CTS continue to evolve, with electrodiagnostic testing remaining the gold standard while ultrasound emerges as a valuable complementary tool (Zhan et al., 2025). The recognition of extraterritorial symptoms in up to 70% of CTS patients has prompted exploration of central mechanisms in symptom generation and maintenance, suggesting a need to "think outside the wrist" in CTS management (Schmid, 2025).
Treatment modalities have diversified, with evidence supporting both traditional approaches like orthotic devices and newer interventions such as manual lymphatic drainage (Akdeniz Leblebicier et al., 2025) and osteopathic manipulative treatment (Zhan et al., 2025). Surgical techniques continue to advance, with a growing preference for minimally invasive approaches like endoscopic carpal tunnel release (Precedence Research, 2025).
The integration of artificial intelligence into CTS management represents an evolving frontier, offering potential advantages in diagnosis, treatment planning, and outcome prediction (Precedence Research, 2025). This technological advancement, coupled with a multidisciplinary approach to CTS management, holds promise for improving patient outcomes and reducing the socioeconomic burden of this common entrapment neuropathy.
In conclusion, the collective developments in CTS understanding and management underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach that considers both peripheral and central mechanisms, occupational and non-occupational risk factors, and individual patient characteristics when developing treatment strategies. By continuing to advance research in this field and translating findings into clinical practice, we can enhance the care provided to individuals with CTS and mitigate its impact on function, quality of life, and work participation.
Akdeniz Leblebicier, M., Cihan, E., Yaman, F., Sahbaz Pirincci, C., Ture, A., & Kavuncu, V. (2025). Can manual lymphatic drainage be a new treatment option in mild-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome? A randomized controlled study. Journal of Hand Therapy. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2024.12.020
Hoffmann Aagaard, T., Biering, K., Medom Vestergaard, J., Vejs Willert, M., & Kyndi, M. (2025). Work Participation in Patients With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Referred to Departments of Occupational Medicine-A Danish Register-Based Cohort Study. American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 68(4), 321-330. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajim.23716
Meng, Q. (2025). Research Progress in the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Theoretical and Natural Science, 89, 29-35. https://doi.org/10.54254/2753-8818/2025.20313
Precedence Research. (2025). Carpal Tunnel Release Systems Market Size and Forecast 2025 to 2034. Report Code: 5763.
Schmid, A. (2025). Carpal tunnel syndrome: thinking outside the box (or wrist). International Association for the Study of Pain. Retrieved from https://www.iasp-pain.org/
Zhan, L., Brown, J., Gustowski, S., Davis, P., & Loomis, M. (2025). Carpal tunnel dimensions following osteopathic manipulation utilizing dorsal carpal arch muscle energy: a pilot study. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1515/jom-2024-0167