Thread-Embedding Acupuncture Versus Electroacupuncture for Mild-to-Moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

This study compared thread-embedding acupuncture with electroacupuncture for adults with mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome confirmed by electrodiagnosis. Eighty participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either thread-embedding acupuncture or electroacupuncture. Both groups also received standard care, including lifestyle modification, nocturnal wrist splinting, nerve and tendon gliding exercises, and paracetamol as needed. Thread-embedding acupuncture was administered twice over two weeks, whereas electroacupuncture was administered 10 times over the same period. Participants were assessed at baseline, week 2, and week 4. The primary outcome was the change in paresthesia intensity from baseline to week 4, measured using a 100-mm visual analog scale. Secondary outcomes included pain intensity, symptom severity, functional status, paracetamol use, and adverse events.