Diagnostic Value of Digital Infrared Thermographic Imaging in Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The goal of this observational study is to evaluate skin temperature patterns measured by infrared thermography in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The main questions it aims to answer are: Are skin temperature patterns associated with CTS as determined by 6-item CTS scale? Participants diagnosed with CTS as part of their routine clinical care will undergo infrared thermal imaging and electrodiagnostic evaluation according to the study protocol. The relationship between thermographic findings and electrodiagnostic severity will be analyzed.

Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years old or more * Were referred to the department of rehabilitation for electrodiagnostic evaluation of the disease not involved in the index hand * The hand of interest has cumulative score of less than 12 from CTS-6 scale Exclusion Criteria: * History of hand surgery in the index hand * Having a condition which may alter surface temperature of the hand, for example, infection, scar in the interested area, arthritis, other peripheral neuropathy, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, uncontrolled thyroid disease, stroke, and vascular disease * Having hand deformities that render collecting DITI information to calculate the parameters of interest impossible, for example, amputation of any part of the hand * Current medication affecting sympathetic tone * Severe tremors or inability to maintain standardized positioning * Electrodiagnosis result other than normal or carpal tunnel syndrome in the hand of interest