Normative median and ulnar nerve conduction values among a rural aged population.

BACKGROUND

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is commonly diagnosed with a combination of characteristic symptoms and nerve conduction studies (NCS) across the wrist. Normative NCS values exist, but there is minimal data among older individuals or among rural populations.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate distal median and ulnar sensory, and median motor latencies across the wrist in an older, rural population.

METHODS

Hand symptom questionnaires and three standard NCS were obtained from 1085 participants. Univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

Normative NCS values are presented from participants (mean age 57 years) who reported either no CTS symptoms or possible CTS symptoms. Covariates associated with NCS included age, hand temperature, body mass index, and height.

CONCLUSIONS

This large normative NCS data set can be generalized to an older and rural population. Nerve conduction latencies were generally longer in this population than those reported in previous studies.