Abstract: Background: Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a common cause of shoulder pain and functional deficit. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a potential non-surgical treatment option due to its ability to promote healing and improve blood flow to the affected area. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PRP in reducing pain and improving shoulder function in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy.
Methods: A total of 30 patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy, who had failed conservative treatments, were enrolled in the study. They received a single subacromial injection of PRP and underwent a standardized rehabilitation protocol. Pain levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and functional outcomes were measured using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (dash) score. Data were collected at baseline and after 8 and 12 weeks.
Results: Following PRP treatment, there was a significant reduction in resting pain levels, with the mean VAS score decreasing from 7.0 to 2.6 at 12 weeks. Functional improvement was also observed, as indicated by a decrease in the mean DASH score from 52.3 to 19.4 at 12 weeks. No major adverse events were reported, with only minor localized pain at the injection site being the most common side effect.
Conclusion: PRP injection combined with a standardized rehabilitation protocol resulted in significant pain reduction and functional improvement in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy. This study supports the use of PRP as a non-surgical treatment option for this condition, providing pain relief and potentially avoiding the need for surgery.
