Rotator Cuff Tendinosis

A single-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted with 30 male overhead athletes (17-35 years) recruited from cricket clubs and sports complexes in Faisalabad. Participants were randomized into Group A (rotator cuff drills: plyometric medicine ball throws, wall dribbles) or Group B (PREs: resistance band exercises with progressive loading). Both groups underwent 12-week interventions (3 sessions/week) following the FIIT principle (Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type), preceded by a standardized 20-minute warm-up. Outcomes were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST), and Upper Limb Rotation Test (ULRT) at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Data were analyzed using SPSS v24, with statistical significance set at \*p\* ≤ 0.05. Descriptive statistics (mean, SD) summarized continuous variables, while frequencies/percentages described categorical data. Normality was confirmed via Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Between-group differences were analyzed using independent \*t\*-tests, and within-group changes via paired \*t\*-tests. The study's rigorous blinding and standardized protocols minimized bias, ensuring robust comparisons between interventions.

This is a randomized controlled trial in which patients with moderate to severe shoulder pain (Visual Analog Scale (VAS) \> 40), in the setting of rotator cuff tendinopathy refractory to conservative treatment, will be enrolled. The primary aim of the study is to estimate the effect of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) with physical therapy (PT) vs PT alone on the change in shoulder pain at 12-month follow up. Scientific objectives also include an assessment of safety of the intervention, assessment of changes in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Upper Extremity score, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) scores, MRI Tendinopathy Score between the TAE + PT and PT groups.

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.