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Recruiting NCT07496398

Median and Ulnar Nerve Function in Tattoo Artists

— Observational Peripheral Neuropathy Pain Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

For patients and families

In plain language

An automatic summary of structured registry data. It is an orientation aid, not a substitute for the official protocol or a physician assessment.

What is being studied
This is an observational study: the protocol does not assign a study treatment.
Who it may be relevant to
Registry conditions: Peripheral Neuropathy Pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), Cubital Tunnel Syndrome. Basic parameters: from 18 years · All.
What needs checking
Age, condition and sex are only basic indicators. Prior treatment, laboratory values and other mandatory requirements appear in the eligibility criteria below.
Where it takes place
Turkey (Türkiye)
Next step
Save the trial, show it to the treating physician, and confirm current recruitment with the study center. Costs, documents and travel →

Unsure about the terms? Read our patient guide →

Official title

Occupational Hand-Arm Vibration Exposure and Its Effects on Median and Ulnar Nerve Function in Tattoo Artists: A Case-Control Study

Overview

This case-control study aims to investigate the effects of occupational hand-arm vibration exposure on median and ulnar nerve functions in tattoo artists. Chronic exposure to vibration generated by tattoo machines may lead to neurosensory impairment, reduced tactile sensitivity, and decreased hand strength. Objective assessments including nerve provocation tests, sensory threshold evaluation, two-point discrimination, vibration perception, grip and pinch strength measurements, and validated patient-reported outcome questionnaires will be used. Findings will be compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

Detailed description

This observational cross-sectional case-control study evaluates neurosensory and motor function differences between professional tattoo artists exposed to long-term occupational vibration and healthy controls. Chronic exposure to hand-arm vibration (HAV) has been associated with peripheral neuropathy, entrapment neuropathies, and sensory receptor dysfunction.

Participants will undergo standardized assessment including:

Tinel, Phalen, reverse Phalen, and elbow flexion tests

Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing

Two-point discrimination

Vibration perception testing (30 Hz and 256 Hz)

Grip and pinch strength measurements

Brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire

Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire

The study aims to determine whether occupational vibration exposure is associated with measurable alterations in median and ulnar nerve sensory and motor function.

Primary outcome measures

  • Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament Threshold [Time frame: Baseline (single assessment session)]
Secondary outcome measures (7)
  • Two-Point Discrimination [Time frame: Baseline (single assessment session)]
  • Vibration Perception Duration [Time frame: Baseline (single assessment session)]
  • Grip Strength [Time frame: Baseline (single assessment session)]
  • Pinch Strength [Time frame: Baseline (single assessment session)]
  • Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire Score [Time frame: Baseline (single assessment session)]
  • Brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire Score [Time frame: Baseline (single assessment session)]
  • Nerve Provocation Test Positivity [Time frame: Baseline (single assessment session)]

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion criteria

  • Age ≥ 18 years
  • Professional tattoo artists with at least 1 year of occupational experience (case group)
  • Healthy individuals without occupational vibration exposure (control group)
  • Voluntary participation and provision of informed consent
  • No upper extremity trauma or surgery within the last 6 months

Exclusion criteria

  • Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus
  • Diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy
  • History of cervical radiculopathy or cervical disc herniation
  • History of upper extremity surgery or injury
  • Presence of rheumatologic or systemic inflammatory diseases
  • Pregnancy
  • Substance or alcohol abuse
  • Engagement in a second occupation involving repetitive hand use or vibration exposure

Criteria are shown verbatim from the registry (in English). Final eligibility is always assessed by the study center.

Healthy volunteers: Yes

Study design

Observational model
Case-control

Study locations

Turkey (Türkiye) · 1 center
  • Gazi University — Ankara

Identifiers

NCT: NCT07496398 · 2025-1981

Primary sources (government registries)

View this study on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗