Effectiveness of eccentric exercise along with conventional physiotherapy for patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy

Abstract

Background: Approximately one-third of individuals suffer with anterior shoulder pain due to rotator cuff tendinopathy, commonly referred to as sub-acromial impingement syndrome. The supraspinatus and infraspinatus rotator cuff tendons exert pressure on bony and ligamentous tissues in this disease. Objectives: To find out the effectiveness of eccentric exercise along with conventional physiotherapy for patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy Methods: This study is a randomized controlled trial. Twenty-five patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy were randomized into two groups: the experimental group (n=13) underwent eccentric exercises alongside conventional physiotherapy, whereas the control group (n=12) received only conventional physiotherapy. Outcomes were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Constant Murley Score, and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (WORC) to measure pain, range of motion, strength, and health-related quality of life. Both groups engaged in 16 therapy sessions over six weeks, supplemented by pre- and post-intervention assessments. The Wilcoxon signed-ranks test was employed for intra-group comparisons, while the Mann-Whitney U test was utilized for inter-group analysis. Result: Both groups showed significant improvements in pain, function, movement, and strength from pre- to post-treatment (p < 0.05). However, between groups analysis showed no significant differences in post-treatment results between conventional physiotherapy and eccentric exercise (p > 0.05). Both therapies improved rotator cuff tendinopathy symptoms, yet eccentric exercise did not surpass conventional physiotherapy. Conclusion: The incorporation of eccentric exercise alongside traditional physiotherapy yields enhancements in pain, range of motion, strength, and functionality for individuals with rotator cuff tendinopathy that are comparable to those attained through conventional physiotherapy treatment alone. Although both methods are successful, eccentric training may provide supplementary advantages in fortifying the rotator cuff muscles, thereby alleviating discomfort and preventing future issues. Keywords: conventional physiotherapy, eccentric exercise, rotator cuff tendinopathy. Word count: 10953