This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. This is an ongoing clinical study in the section of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The study was designed to determine a) the association of premorbid factors and their affects on outcome; b) compare the different options and their outcomes; c) and quantification of outcomes by electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies. Several premorbid factors were examined, such as, sex, age, and body mass (BMI). The different treatment options compared were surgical release, splinting, medication, and steroid injections. EMG and nerve conduction studies were conducted on each subject. They were asked to return after 3, 6, and 12 months follow-up. The latency and amplitude results from these tests will be used to determine whether symptoms were improving or not. Information related to their employment, ability to do household tasks, as well as, occupational tasks were collected. In addition to physical examination, Phalen, reverse Phalen, and Tinel's exams were performed on each subject. Study subjects were also asked to complete a questionnaire evaluating: a.) symptoms, such as, pain, numbness, weakness, and being awaken by these symptoms; b.) and motor difficulties, such as, dropping things, clumsiness, difficulty grasping small objects, and difficulty buttoning. These symptoms were with both hands. Preliminary data analysis shows that a majority of our study participants are African American, female, and have a BMI indicating obesity. The average age of subjects is 50 years. Correlation analysis between treatment groups will be done upon completion of the study. To date, a total of 102 subjects had been enrolled in this ongoing study and any additional conclusion could not be drawn at this time. We will continue working on this project over the next year, during which the project is scheduled to be completed.
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