# Hand Neuropathies and Musculoskeletal Disorders: Complementary Diagnosis Using IR Thermography
###### Abstract
Over time, the joint's cartilage can deteriorate due to aging, repetitive use, or injury [23]. Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion at the base of the affected hand joints [24]. Swelling and the development of bony nodules (Heberden's and Bouchard's nodes) may also occur. Tenosynovitis of Quervain arises from irritation or inflammation of the tendons (abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis) on the thumb side of the wrist. Repetitive thumb motions or injury can trigger inflammation in the tendon sheath [2]. Symptoms include pain and tenderness at the base of the thumb, especially when grasping or making a fist [25]. Swelling and difficulty moving the thumb are also common. Furthermore, flexor tendonopathy involves inflammation or irritation of the tendons in the fingers, often due to overuse, strain, or repetitive motions [26]. It can be associated with conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Affected individuals may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the fingers, particularly when bending or gripping objects [27]. Decreased hand strength and difficulty with fine motor tasks can also occur. Traditionally, clinicians have relied on a combination of clinical examination, electromyography (EMG), and imaging techniques such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess these conditions [1; 3; 18; 28]. While these methods have been instrumental in diagnosis, they are often limited in providing a comprehensive view of the underlying physiological changes [29]. On the other hand, IRT offers a unique perspective by capturing the thermal patterns and temperature distribution in the affected area [30]. This non-invasive technology is based on the principle that different tissues and structures in the human body emit varying levels of infrared radiation based on their metabolic activity and blood flow [4]. Consequently, it can detect subtle changes in temperature distribution that may not be discernible through conventional means. However, the specific contextual relevance of IRT in medical applications, especially concerning hand pathologies, is not sufficiently explored in the existing literature. Furthermore, the potential for early detection of abnormalities, which can be instrumental in preventive healthcare, remains an understudied facet of IRT within the medical domain. Hence, understanding the distinct thermal patterns associated with different medical conditions, particularly those affecting the hands, is crucial for harnessing the full potential of IRT in clinical settings. Numerous studies have sought to explore the clinical utility of infrared thermal imaging in the context of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, but other hand neuropathies and musculoskeletal disorders are poorly explored. [PERSON] et al. [4] studied the dynamic relationship between CTS duration, severity, and the diagnostic potential of IRT. The findings revealed a diminishing trend in temperature differences between areas innervated by the median and ulnar nerves as the disease progressed. Additionally, it was observed an increase in thermal anisometry correlated with prolonged duration and severity of CTS. However, a notable limitation of the study is the exclusive focus on the physiological changes in unmyelinated autonomic nerves, without drawing comparisons between temperature patterns in the injury and control groups. This suggests that while the study provides valuable insights into the physiological aspects of CTS, it lacks a direct comparison with control groups, potentially limiting the comprehensive understanding of temperature dynamics in the context of CTS pathology. [PERSON] et al. [29] studied the usefulness of the infrared thermography in the diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. They found a notable contrast in the thermographic patterns between the hands of participants with pathology and those of the control group.