Abstract
Shoulder rotator cuff tendinopathy is a common debilitating condition that affects a person daily function and the quality of life. Despite its frequent occurrence, the best treatment is still inconclusive. This review assessed the clinical effect of platelet-rich plasma injection for rotator cuff tendinopathy. A systematic literature search was conducted using CINAHL, Medline, SCOPUS, SPORTSDiscus and Web of Science databases to retrieve articles published in peer-reviewed journals until December 2020. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), which compared clinical effects of PRP injection to the usual care among adults diagnosed with rotator cuff conditions were reviewed. The main outcomes of interest were changes in shoulder pain symptoms and shoulder functions. All variables were analysed using random effects meta-analyses. Eight RCTs were reviewed in this study. The risk of bias for randomization was low for 6 RCTs, one study had unclear risk and the other was a high risk. Studies vary on the PRP techniques including preparation and injections. Moreover, the control intervention also differs. Four studies compared PRP with normal saline injection while in the remaining 4 RCTs the control intervention were rehabilitation program and dry needling. Meta-analysis of selected studies showed that PRP injection was safe and effective intervention for long-term pain control and shoulder function in patients with RC disorders.
Highlights
In the healthcare setting, shoulder pain and dysfunction are commonly observed
Our meta-analysis found that there was no difference in the short term (3 weeks) pain symptoms control between platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and control interventions
The current findings are consistent with a recent systematic review and meta-analysis, which concluded that PRP was significantly more effective in reducing pain of up to 24 weeks [32]
Summary
Shoulder pain and dysfunction are commonly observed. Epidemiological studies have shown a wide prevalence of these disorders varying from 7% to 26% [1]. The shoulder disorders have been identified as the third most common musculoskeletal complaint, according to a large population study in the United Kingdom [2]. Shoulder disorders have a major effect on the capacity of a person to perform daily activities and on the quality of life [3]. Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a common cause of shoulder pain and functional deficit.
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