Decompressive surgery of lower limbs for symmetrical diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Abstract Background Symmetrical peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetic neuropathy. No treatments are known to be effective for progressive pain and sensory loss associated with diabetic neuropathy. Alternative effective treatment strategies have been sought. Objectives To systematically review the evidence from randomized controlled trials concerning the role of decompressive surgery of lower limbs […]
Corticosteroids as adjuvant to antiviral treatment in Ramsay Hunt syndrome (herpes zoster oticus with facial palsy) in adults
Abstract Background Inflammation and oedema of the facial nerve due to viral infection by the herpes zoster virus are implicated in the aetiology and clinical manifestation of Ramsay Hunt syndrome (herpes zoster oticus with facial palsy). Corticosteroids, with their powerful anti-inflammatory effect, have a potential role to play in the reduction or minimisation of nerve […]
Vitamin B for treating peripheral neuropathy
Abstract Background Vitamin B is frequently used for treating peripheral neuropathy but its efficacy is not clear. Objectives The objective of this review was to assess the effects of vitamin B for treating generalised peripheral neuropathy. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Trials Register (searched August 2005), MEDLINE (January 1966 to September […]
Treatment for periodic paralysis
Abstract Background Primary periodic paralyses are rare inherited muscle diseases characterised by episodes of flaccid weakness affecting one or more limbs, lasting several hours to several days, caused by mutations in skeletal muscle channel genes. Objectives The objective of this review was to systematically review treatment of periodic paralyses. Search methods We searched the Cochrane […]
Treatment for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
Abstract Background Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) comprises a large variety of different forms of motor and sensory neuropathies. The most frequent are demyelinating forms (CMT1) and axonal forms (CMT2). The molecular basis of several CMT forms has been clarified during the last 15 years. Since muscle wasting and sensory disturbance are the main features of these […]
Surgical treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome
Abstract Background Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common disorder for which several surgical treatment options are available. Objectives To compare the efficacy of the various surgical techniques in relieving symptoms and promoting return to work or activities of daily living and to compare the occurrence of side-effects and complications in patients suffering from carpal tunnel […]
Immunosuppressive agents for myasthenia gravis
Abstract Background The benefits of different immunosuppressants for myasthenia gravis (MG) are unclear. Objectives Assessment of immunosuppressant drug efficacy in MG. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Trials Register, MEDLINE (from January 1966 to July 2007), EMBASE (from January 1980 to July 2007), review and trial bibliographies and contacted trial authors. Selection […]
Aldose reductase inhibitors for the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy
Abstract Background Polyneuropathy, a common complication of diabetes mellitus, causes pain and sensory and motor deficits in the limbs, and is also an important independent predictor of foot ulceration. Inhibiting the metabolism of glucose by the polyol pathway using aldose reductase inhibitors is a potential mechanism to slow or reverse the neuropathy’s progression. Objectives To […]
Local corticosteroid injection for carpal tunnel syndrome
Abstract Background Carpal tunnel syndrome is a clinical syndrome manifested by signs and symptoms of irritation of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Local corticosteroid injection for carpal tunnel syndrome has been studied but its effectiveness is unknown. Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of local corticosteroid injection for carpal tunnel syndrome […]
Surgical treatment for the thumb-in-palm deformity in patients with cerebral palsy
Abstract Background Thumb-in-palm deformity in patients with spastic cerebral palsy is a deformity that impairs the ability to use the thumb and thus severely limits hand function. From the variety of operative procedures that have been described, it may be clear that there is no consensus on the surgical treatment of thumb-in-palm deformity. Objectives To […]