The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a branch of the National Institutes of Health, continues to sponsor research for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Researchers are testing an experimental technique, called percutaneous balloon carpal tunnel-plasty, which may ease carpal tunnel pain without cutting the carpal ligament.

In this procedure, a physician makes a tiny cut (about a quarter of an inch) at the base of the palm. Then the surgeon inserts a balloon through a catheter under the carpal ligament and inflates the balloon to stretch the ligament and release the nerve.

In trials, some patients experienced relief of symptoms without any complications. Most of them returned to work within two weeks. However, this technique is not yet widely available.

Other studies include several clinical trials to determine the effectiveness of educational interventions in reducing the rate of CTS. Another clinical study is compiling data about CTS among construction workers to better understand specific workplace factors associated with the nerve entrapment disorder and help develop strategies to prevent its occurrence among these workers.

In addition, researchers are continuing to study the use of alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and yoga, to prevent and treat CTS.