Introduction: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a peripheral neuropathy. Signs, which accompany the neuropathy, are tingling, muscle weakness and pain. A dynamic mechanic pressure on the nerve at a particular point causes neuropathy. With early diagnostics, the difficulties are being eliminated by conservative treatment. Considered among effective occupational therapy interventions are education of the patient about the correct use of the hand during daily activities, night splint, ergonomic principles and ergonomic adjustments. Purpose: The purpose of this diploma work was to test the effectiveness of occupational therapy intervention using splints and educational approach respectively. Methods: We used quantitative method for data gathering. The research was prospective. Progress was assessed with the Canadian occupational performance measure, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire, the Box and Block Test, the Assessment of hand-grip, the Sensitivity Test with monofilaments, the Sensitivity Test hot and cold and a questionnaire for following instructions. We calculated rates of central tendencies and dispersion rate. For the statistical analysis, we used the even T-test and T-test for independent cases. Results: Ten patients that were referred for the making of a splint in URI Soča were included in this test. Both groups showed statistically important changes typical for wearing a splint. A difference occurred in the Sensitivity Test with monofilaments. Statistical important changes in the group with the educational approach are not showing, except in the Sensitivity Test with monofilaments measured on the little finger and the distal hypothenar. Discussion and conclusion: We can discern from the results of preliminary and final tests, that the occupational therapy intervention for the carpal tunnel syndrome is effective. During our research, we proved a statistical important improvement with wearing a splint. Educational approach showed as ineffective, but with positive. Therefore, for future researches an increase in the number of patients is required. The thesis represents a general review of information about the carpal tunnel syndrome. Instructions for adjusted hand usage during daily activities were made in Slovenian language, which do not exist prior to this. Although we did not scientifically prove their effectiveness, we think that they are a useful tool for further use with patients with the carpal tunnel syndrome.
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