Comparative Effectiveness of Injection Therapies in Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

Researchers compared the efficacy of diverse injections (including cortisteroid, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin, platelet-rich plasma, and prolotherapy) in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Findings revealed that cortisteroid was effective for short term (3-6 week) pain reduction and functional improvement for individuals with rotator cuff tendinopathy, but not for long term (>24 weeks).

It was suggested from the results that platelet-rich plasma and prolotherapy might produce a better outcome in the long term for patients.

Reference:

Lin MT, et al. Comparative effectiveness of injection therapies in rotator cuff tendinopathy: A systematic review, pairwise and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.  Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, August 03, 2018.