Comparative effectiveness of percutaneous needle electrolysis and shockwave therapy in subscapularis tendinopathy: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate whether adding ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) to extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and therapeutic exercise improves short-term outcomes in adults with imaging-confirmed subscapularis tendinopathy. METHODS: = 15) for 8 weeks. Primary outcomes were pain (VAS), upper-limb disability (DASH), and tendon stiffness; secondary outcomes were pressure pain threshold, internal rotation range of motion and strength, cross-sectional area, tissue perfusion, Tenascin-C, and ultrasound tendon integrity findings. RESULTS: = .002). CONCLUSIONS: Adding PNE to ESWT, manual therapy, and exercise was associated with greater short-term improvements in upper-limb disability, tendon properties, and shoulder mechanical performance. Pain improved in both groups, without a between-group difference. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: The www.isrctn.com identifier is ISRCTN66866842.