A Study to Assess the Effects of Ultrasound-guided Dry Needling in Rehabilitation of Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

Abstract Background: Dry needling (DN) in rotator cuff tendinopathy often reduces the need for surgical interventions. To explore the effects of ultrasound (USG)-guided DN, we have conducted this study on chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy patients. Aims and Objectives: The aim is to assess the effects of DN in rotator cuff tendinopathy. Materials and Methods: This single-arm interventional study was initially conducted with 59 cases of both genders after considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Proper informed consent was obtained. USG-guided DN was done on the affected side. The outcome was measured by the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for pain. All the variables were measured at the baseline/visit 1, 6 th week/visit 2, 12 th week/visit 3 and 24 th week/visit 4. A total of 55 cases were analysed, as there were four drop outs from the subsequent follow-ups. Results: Supraspinatus was most commonly involved in tendinopathy. Statistically significant improvement was noted in both NRS and SPADI score during all the follow-ups ( P = 0.000). Conclusion: DN is an effective treatment method for rotator cuff tendinopathy with long-term improvement in pain and functional parameters.