The use of an app to manage carpal tunnel syndrome

Introduction Mobile technology is one of the fastest growing areas of disease management. This case describes the use of a mobile phone app to overcome pain and disability associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Case Study Based on EMDR the app uses bilateral stimulation to change the physical and emotional dimensions of the problem. Pain, disability, and depression were measured using the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire, The Pain Disability Index, The Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire and the Beck Depression Inventory. After three months of using the app the user reported a significant reduction in pain (90%), medication usage (100%), and disability (75%), and increased confidence in her ability to control her pain (300%). These gains were maintained and even improved upon at 6 months. Surgery which had been recommended by her treating medical specialist was no longer considered necessary. Conclusion This case suggests that apps may have a role to play in the management of CTS and other chronic pain conditions.