Differences in sensory conduction velocity between different sensory branches and segments of the median and ulnar nerves.

Abnormality of absolute values of median sensory conduction velocities and differences in conduction velocity between median and ulnar nerves are used as criteria for abnormality in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. Detailed studies of sensory conduction in various median and ulnar branches and segments indicate that conduction velocities measured and calculated by standard methods are different in the different nerves, segments and branches. In particular, the velocity in the middle digit branch of the median nerve is slower than that in the index, and that in the 3-4 palmar branch is slower than that in the 2-3 palmar branch. Median and ulnar sensory conduction velocities are not well correlated in the same hand in the same individual, so comparison of these nerves for diagnostic purposes is subject to some risk. Palmar and digital conduction velocity in the same nerve may not be identical and the median nerve may have asymptomatic palmar slowing of no clinical significance. The conclusion that abnormality is present must take these factors into account.