Effect of Adding Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy to Exercises in Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Effect of Adding Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy to Exercises in Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Deraya University
50 participants
Dec 15, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Summary
Rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT) is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, resulting in functional limitations and reduced quality of life. Exercise therapy is considered a first-line treatment; however, adjunct modalities such as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) may enhance recovery. This study aims to evaluate the effect of adding ESWT to a rotator cuff and scapular stabilization exercise program in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria6
- Medically stable individuals who consent to participate in the study.
- Male and female participants aged between 30 and 55 years.
- Diagnosed with rotator cuff tendinopathy, confirmed clinically and by ultrasound or MRI.
- Duration of symptoms greater than 3 months.
- Supraspinatus tendon thickness > 5.85 mm as measured by ultrasound (based on Hunter et al., 2021).
- Able to follow the treatment plan and attend all therapy sessions.
Exclusion Criteria10
- Massive rotator cuff tear or complete tendon rupture.
- Adhesive capsulitis or significant limitation of passive shoulder motion.
- History of shoulder fracture, dislocation, or surgery in the affected limb.
- Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, or systemic inflammatory disease.
- Cervical radiculopathy or neurological involvement affecting the shoulder.
- Corticosteroid injection in the affected shoulder within the last 6 months.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- BMI > 30 kg/m² (obese individuals excluded).
- Current malignancy, open wounds, or local infection at the treatment site.
- Inability to tolerate shock wave therapy or perform exercise sessions.
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Interventions
Focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) will be applied to the supraspinatus tendon at 1.5 bar, 1500 shocks per session, once weekly for 6 weeks, in combination with a rotator cuff and scapular stabilization exercise program performed three times weekly. This combination is designed to promote tendon healing, improve strength, and reduce shoulder pain.
A standardized rotator cuff and scapular stabilization exercise program including strengthening, stretching, and control training for the shoulder complex. Exercises are performed three times weekly for 6 weeks under supervision. This program serves as the active control for comparison with ESWT + Exercise.
Locations(1)
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NCT07390396