From the Research
Relationship between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Hypothyroidism
- There is evidence to suggest a relationship between carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and hypothyroidism, with several studies indicating that hypothyroidism is a risk factor for CTS 1, 2.
- A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that 16.7% of patients with primary hypothyroidism had CTS, and that increased body mass index (BMI) and presence of clinical symptoms and/or signs of CTS were independently correlated with the presence of CTS in hypothyroidism 1.
- Another study published in The Journal of Hand Surgery found that 73% of hypothyroid patients displayed symptoms of CTS, and that normal median nerve latencies at the wrist in the presence of CTS symptoms and a positive physical examination were more prevalent than expected in hypothyroid patients 2.
- However, it's worth noting that not all studies have found a significant relationship between CTS and hypothyroidism, and that the evidence is not yet conclusive 3, 4, 5.
Clinical Implications
- The relationship between CTS and hypothyroidism has important clinical implications, as it suggests that patients with hypothyroidism may be at increased risk of developing CTS 1, 2.
- Clinicians should be aware of this potential relationship and consider screening patients with hypothyroidism for CTS symptoms and signs 1, 2.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between CTS and hypothyroidism, and to determine the best course of treatment for patients with both conditions 3, 4, 5.