NCT07094178

Corticosteroid Versus PRP Injections for Shoulder Tendinopathy

Efficacy of Corticosteroid Versus Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections in the Treatment of Shoulder Tendinopathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

• Status: Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 60 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Hopital Charles Nicolle · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

Shoulder tendinopathy is a common condition that causes shoulder pain and limits daily activities. It often results from damage or overuse of the rotator cuff tendons. Treatment typically includes rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes injections. This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of two types of injections for treating simple shoulder tendinopathy: Corticosteroid injections, which reduce inflammation and provide quick pain relief, but may have only short-term effects. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, a newer treatment made from the patient's own blood, which may promote long-term healing. The study is being conducted at the Rheumatology Department of Charles Nicolle Hospital in Tunis, Tunisia. A total of 60 adult patients with shoulder tendinopathy will be randomly assigned to receive either a corticosteroid injection or a PRP injection. Participants will be evaluated before the injection (baseline), after one week, and after three months. The researchers will assess pain levels using a visual analog scale (VAS), and shoulder function using validated questionnaires (DASH and SPADI scores). The goal is to determine which treatment provides better pain relief and functional improvement over time.

Conditions

• Tendinopathy of Rotator Cuff

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
PROCEDURE	Corticosteroid Injection	This intervention consists of a single injection of corticosteroids administered directly into the affected tendon of the shoulder. Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs used to rapidly reduce inflammation and pain associated with tendinopathy. The injection is performed under aseptic conditions by a trained physician. The aim is to provide quick pain relief and improve shoulder function, although effects may be temporary.
PROCEDURE	platelet-rich plasma injection	This intervention involves a single injection of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), which is prepared from the patient's own blood through a process of centrifugation to concentrate platelets. PRP contains growth factors that may promote tissue healing and regeneration. The injection is administered under aseptic conditions into the affected shoulder tendon by a trained physician. The goal is to enhance long-term recovery of tendon function and reduce pain.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-06-30
• Primary completion: 2025-10-01
• Completion: 2025-11-01
• First posted: 2025-07-30
• Last updated: 2025-07-30

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Tunisia