Platelet rich plasma versus extracorporeal shock wave therapy in patients with non-calcific supraspinatous tears

Abstract

Abstract Background To compare the clinical efficacy of platelet rich plasma (PRP) subacromial injection and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on refractory non-calcific partial thickness supraspinatous tendon tear. Results Significant improvement in all outcome measures achieved in both groups at 4 weeks follow-up period (the end of treatment course) (P < 0.05). At 12 weeks follow-up period, group I, showed significant improvement in all outcome measures compared to baseline and group II; however, in group II, there was no significant difference compared to baseline; moreover, deterioration in the previous improvement was noticed. Conclusion Both PRP (group I) and ESWT (group II) are effective therapeutic methods in the management of refractory non-calcific partial thickness supraspinatous tendon tear; however, PRP (group I) has better long-term effects on both pain and function.

Keywords

• Supraspinatous tear
• Platelet rich plasma
• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy