Real Dry Needling and Placebo Dry Needling Applied With and Without Ultrasound Guidance on the Infraspinatus Muscle

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ALCALA · Sep 3, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of dry needling, a technique where a thin needle is inserted into specific points in the muscle to help relieve pain and improve movement, specifically for people with rotator cuff tendinopathy. The trial will compare two types of dry needling: one that uses ultrasound to guide the needle, and one that does not. Participants will be divided into four groups to see which method works best, and they will also follow a self-directed exercise plan over six weeks. Measurements will be taken to assess their shoulder strength, functionality, grip strength, and range of motion.

To be eligible for this trial, participants need to be between 18 and 60 years old and have a doctor’s diagnosis of rotator cuff tendinopathy confirmed by imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI. Participants should have a specific tight band in the infraspinatus muscle that causes their symptoms when pressed. However, individuals with certain conditions, such as high-level athletes, those who have had shoulder surgery, or those with certain medical histories will not be able to participate. This study aims to help improve the treatment options for shoulder pain and enhance the quality of life for people facing these issues.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients aged between 18 and 60 years. Patients diagnosed with rotator cuff tendinopathy by a physician. The physician must have determined this diagnosis based on an imaging test: ultrasound or MRI. Presence of a taut band in the infraspinatus muscle with active trigger points that reproduce the patient\'s symptoms upon pressure.
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• Exclusion Criteria:
• • High-level athletes, patients diagnosed with capsulitis, patients with a history of humeral or scapular fracture, patients with a complete or partial rotator cuff tear, patients diagnosed with cancer, and patients with any contraindications related to dry needling, patients who have previously undergone shoulder surgery, patients with a history of shoulder dislocation, patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia, patients taking medication for shoulder pain, and pregnant patients
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