Ob jective: In this study, the relationship between different intensities of compression levels and clinical symptoms, physical, functional and qualityof-life findings was investigated in patients with electrophysiologically diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Metarials and Methods: Sixty five patients who presented with paresthesia and pain in hands and diagnosed as having carpal tunnel syndrome with electroneuromyographic (ENMG) examination were included in our study. Demographic data of all patients and the present symptoms were recorded. The Boston Symptom Severity Scale (BSSS) was used to evaluate the severity of symptoms. In addition, tactile sensation, pain and temperature senses, cortical sensations using static and dynamic two-point discrimination tests, presence of thenar atrophy, Tinel sign and Phalen test, hand dexterity, grip strength, functionality of the hand and health-related quality of life were evaluated.

Results: Sixty five patients who were diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome were divided into three groups according to the electroneuromyography (ENMG) findings. Patients with mild, moderate and severe median nerve compression were included in group 1 (n=29), Group 2 (n=18) and Group 3 (n=18) respectively. Weakness and clumsiness symptoms, symptom severity scale scores, sensorial functions, grip and pinch strengths, presence of thenar atrophy, hand functions and quality of life except for pain showed a negative correlation with the severity of compression between the 3 groups. There was a significant difference between the group 1 and group 3 in terms of with to the prolonged symptom duration and the impairment of the hand dexterity. Positive of Tinnel’s sign and Phalen test and pain subscale of quality of life did not differ between the groups.

Conclusion: Increase in levels of compression results in a decrease in functionality and deterioration in quality of life in patients with CTS.