Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy versus Local Corticosteroid Injection and Platelet-Rich Plasma in The Treatment of Supraspinatus Tendinopathy

Abstract

Background: A chronic degenerative musculoskeletal condition known as tendinopathy is widespread in both the general public and sportsmen. The most typical therapies used to facilitate tendon repair and regeneration are extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and local corticosteroid injection. Objective:The aim of the current study was to evaluate the efficacy of ESWT to corticosteroid and PRP injections in the treatment of supraspinatus tendonitis. Patients and methods:A total of 60 subjects suffering from supraspinatus tendinopathy were recruited and divided into 3 groups: 20 patients who received platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, 20 patients who received local corticosteroid injection, and 20 patients who received ESWT using radial ESWT. Results:In the PRP group results showed a statistically significant improvement in visual analogue scale (VAS), tendon thickness, tear size, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons patient self-report section (ASES-p). The VAS, US examination, and ASES-p all indicated statistically significant improvements after corticosteroid injection. The VAS, US test, and ASES-p all revealed statistically significant improvements in the ESWT group. Conclusion:In comparison to steroid injection and ESWT, PRP therapy offers an extra favorable short-term benefit for the treatment of supraspinatus tendinopathy. ESWT is also a simple, effective, and noninvasive alternative for the treatment of supraspinatus tendinopathy. Two months following therapy, local corticosteroid injections reduced discomfort and increased functional abilities.