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  4. Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injection for the treatment of recalcitrant rotator cuff disease in wheelchair users with spinal cord injury: A pilot study

Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injection for the treatment of recalcitrant rotator cuff disease in wheelchair users with spinal cord injury: A pilot study

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2022 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2020.1754676 · Published: January 1, 2022

Spinal Cord InjuryRegenerative MedicineRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores a potential treatment for shoulder pain in wheelchair users with spinal cord injuries, a common issue due to overuse. The treatment involves injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the shoulder to promote healing, followed by a stretching and strengthening exercise program. The pilot study aimed to assess the safety and potential effectiveness of this approach in reducing shoulder pain.

Study Duration
24 weeks
Participants
6 wheelchair users with SCI (3 paraplegia, 3 tetraplegia)
Evidence Level
Prospective, quasi-experimental pilot study

Key Findings

  • 1
    The PRP injection, combined with exercise, led to significant decreases in shoulder pain, as measured by the WUSPI, NRS, and physical exam scores, 24 weeks after treatment.
  • 2
    Participants reported an overall improvement in their condition as a result of the treatment.
  • 3
    No adverse events were observed, indicating the safety of the procedure in this small sample.

Research Summary

This pilot study investigated the use of ultrasound-guided PRP injections for shoulder pain in wheelchair users with SCI and recalcitrant rotator cuff disease. The results showed significant improvements in pain and function, as measured by the WUSPI, NRS, and physical examination scores, after 24 weeks. The study concludes that PRP injection is a safe and potentially effective treatment, warranting a larger randomized controlled trial.

Practical Implications

Potential Non-Surgical Option

PRP injection could offer a non-surgical alternative for managing shoulder pain in wheelchair users with SCI, potentially delaying or preventing the need for surgery.

Improved Quality of Life

Reduction in shoulder pain can lead to increased functional independence and improved quality of life for individuals with SCI.

Guide for Future Research

The positive findings from this pilot study can inform the design of larger, more definitive clinical trials to further investigate the efficacy of PRP for rotator cuff disease in this population.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Small sample size
  • 2
    Lack of a control group and randomization
  • 3
    Relatively short follow-up period of 24 weeks

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