Notch vs Midpoint Suprascapular Nerve PRF for Chronic Shoulder Pain
Comparison of Suprascapular Notch and Midpoint Approaches in Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment of the Suprascapular Nerve on Pain and Function in Patients With Chronic Shoulder Pain
Ankara City Hospital Bilkent
32 participants
May 7, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
This study aims to compare the effects of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment of the suprascapular nerve using suprascapular notch and midpoint approaches on pain, shoulder function, and muscle strength in patients with chronic shoulder pain due to rotator cuff tendinopathy. Patients will be randomly assigned to one of the two intervention groups. Clinical evaluations will include pain assessment using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), functional assessment using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and quality of life assessment using the Short Form-36 (SF-36). In addition, shoulder range of motion will be measured goniometrically, muscle thickness of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus will be evaluated by ultrasonography, and shoulder muscle strength will be assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. Assessments will be performed at baseline, 24 hours, 1 month, and 3 months after the intervention. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the optimal approach for PRF treatment of the suprascapular nerve in patients with chronic shoulder pain.
Eligibility
Plain Language Summary
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Interventions
Under ultrasound guidance, a radiofrequency needle will be positioned adjacent to the suprascapular nerve at the suprascapular notch. Sensory stimulation at 50 Hz and motor stimulation at 2 Hz will be performed to confirm appropriate needle placement. Pulsed radiofrequency will then be applied at 42°C for three cycles of 120 seconds.
Under ultrasound guidance, a radiofrequency needle will be positioned adjacent to the suprascapular nerve at the midpoint between the suprascapular notch and the spinoglenoid notch. Sensory stimulation at 50 Hz and motor stimulation at 2 Hz will be performed to confirm appropriate needle placement. Pulsed radiofrequency will then be applied at 42°C for three cycles of 120 seconds.
Locations(1)
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NCT07502209