Therapeutic Exercise for Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy / Subacromial Pain Syndrome - Outcomes and Mechanisms
This study examines how therapeutic exercise can help treat rotator cuff tendinopathy, a common shoulder condition that causes pain and limits arm movement. Researchers are investigating both the effectiveness of exercise treatment and the mechanisms behind how it works to reduce pain and improve shoulder function.
Key Objective:The trial tests whether therapeutic exercise can effectively reduce shoulder pain and disability in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy.
Who to Consider:People with rotator cuff shoulder pain or subacromial pain syndrome who are interested in understanding exercise-based treatment options should consider enrolling.
Trial Parameters
Eligibility Fast-Check
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Brief Summary
Rotator cuff tendinopathy, one of the pathologies identified as part of the cluster of shoulder symptoms known as subacromial pain syndrome, is a common musculoskeletal shoulder condition. Resolution of pain and disability is poor despite treatment, with only about 50% reporting full recovery at 12 - 18 months. Prior studies suggest therapeutic exercise when used alone and with other interventions can have positive outcomes; however, not all patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy respond. Few studies have assessed the effects of exercise for individuals with chronic pain, especially brain driven mechanisms, thought to play a key role. In this study, we will use brain imaging to understand the mechanisms, identify predictors of a positive response to exercise, and the relationship to biomechanical and pain-related factors in patients with RC tendinopathy. The findings from this study will optimize the delivery and treatment response to exercise for individuals with shoulder pain.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. the clinical diagnosis for RC tendinopathy will be made with positive 3 of 5 tests: Hawkins-Kennedy, Neer, painful arc, empty can, external rotation resistance test 2. pain ≥ 3/10 on a numeric pain rating scale 3. age: 18 - 45 years 4. Participant must read, sign and date the appropriate Informed consent document. 5. Participant BMI ≤ 30 Exclusion Criteria: 1. Insufficient ability to comprehend and complete the questionnaires, 2. Inability to attend sessions, 3. Prior surgery of shoulder, neck or thoracic spine, 4. Primary complaint of neck or thoracic pain, 5. Diagnosis of cervical spinal stenosis, 6. Any serious spinal and shoulder pathology: infections, arthrosis, rheumatic disorders, acute fractures, shoulder dislocation, osteoporosis, or tumors, 7. Central Nervous System involvement, to include hyperreflexia, sensory disturbances in the hand, intrinsic muscle wasting of the hands, unsteadiness during walking, nystagmus, loss of visual acuity, impaired sensat