The likelihood that hand configuration is related to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) was examined in this study. Based on neurophysiological criteria, 50 female subjects with CTS and 50 healthy female controls were selected and their external hand dimensions were measured. Our results showed that the palm length and third digit length were significantly shorter and the palm width larger in the subjects with CTS compared with controls. Regression analysis demonstrated that the hand ratio [(palm + third digit length)/palm width] was significantly correlated with median nerve conduction measurements. The hand ratio may be a simple and useful predictive measurement in determining the tendency for CTS.
Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.