Therapeutic Exercise for Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how therapeutic exercise might help individuals with rotator cuff tendinopathy, a condition causing shoulder pain and limiting movement. Researchers aim to understand how exercise affects the brain and can predict who will benefit most from this treatment. Participants will engage in an eight-week program of resistance and mobility exercises led by a health professional. Individuals with shoulder pain rated at 3 out of 10 or higher, confirmed rotator cuff tendinopathy, and no prior shoulder surgery might be suitable for this trial. The findings could enhance exercise treatments for those struggling with ongoing shoulder pain. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could lead to better treatment options for shoulder pain.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that therapeutic exercise for rotator cuff tendinopathy is safe?
Research shows that exercise is generally safe for people with rotator cuff tendinopathy, a common shoulder problem. Studies have found that exercise programs can reduce pain and improve shoulder function. A review of several studies found that supervised exercise reduces pain and disability in adults with shoulder pain.
Some people might feel mild discomfort while exercising, but it usually subsides quickly. The exercises aim to improve shoulder movement and strength without causing harm. Most people tolerate the exercises well, and serious issues are rare.
Overall, exercise is considered a safe way to manage shoulder pain related to rotator cuff tendinopathy.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the therapeutic exercise treatment for rotator cuff tendinopathy because it offers a non-invasive approach focused on resistance and mobility training. Unlike standard treatments like pain medications or steroid injections, this method empowers patients to actively participate in their recovery, potentially improving long-term outcomes by strengthening the shoulder and enhancing its range of motion. Additionally, being guided by a trained health professional ensures personalized care, which could lead to more effective management of symptoms compared to one-size-fits-all solutions.
What evidence suggests that therapeutic exercise is effective for rotator cuff tendinopathy?
Research has shown that exercise can help people with rotator cuff tendinopathy, a shoulder condition. Studies have found that exercise programs reduce pain and disability, strengthen muscles, and improve the coordination of nerves and muscles. In this trial, participants will join an Exercise Group receiving therapeutic exercise, including resistance and mobility training, delivered by a trained health professional over 8 weeks. Supervised training is particularly effective for managing symptoms of shoulder pain related to rotator cuff issues. While responses vary, many people benefit from these specific exercises. Overall, these exercises have been shown to reduce pain and help people regain shoulder function.25678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Lori A Michener, PT, ATC, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Southern California
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals aged 18-45 with a clinical diagnosis of rotator cuff tendinopathy, confirmed by specific shoulder tests. Participants must have shoulder pain rated at least 3/10 and a BMI ≤30. They should be able to attend sessions, sign consent forms, and safely undergo MRI scans. Exclusions include prior surgeries in the area, certain spinal conditions, inability to complete questionnaires, or any serious pathology affecting the spine or nervous system.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Therapeutic exercise of resistance and mobility training delivered by a trained health professional
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Therapeutic Exercise for Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy / Subacromial Pain Syndrome
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Southern California
Lead Sponsor