Comparison of the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection and steroid injection in patients with bilateral moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: a prospective randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE To compare the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection, corticosteroid injection, and wrist splinting in patients with bilateral moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) using clinical, electrophysiological, and radiological parameters.

MATERIAL AND METHODS This randomized controlled study included 45 patients with bilateral moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, divided equally into three groups: PRP + splint, steroid + splint, and splint-only (control). Assessments were conducted pre-treatment and at 1 and 6 months post-treatment using VAS scores (pain and numbness), pinch and grip strength, QuickDASH questionnaire, EMG, and MRI.

RESULTS VAS scores significantly improved in all groups at both follow-ups, with greater reductions in night pain and numbness in the PRP and steroid groups versus control. All groups showed improved strength at month 1; by month 6, grip strength improved only in the PRP group, while pinch strength improved in both PRP and steroid groups. While A significant reduction in the Quick DASH symptom score was observed in the PRP and steroid groups, EMG findings improved significantly in all groups. MRI showed a significant decrease in palmar bowing in the PRP and steroid groups.

CONCLUSION While both PRP and steroid injections were more effective than splinting alone in improving symptoms and function, PRP demonstrated some indications of more sustained benefits, particularly at the 6-month follow-up.