Trial for Shoulder Pathology and Pain in Chronic SCI

Trial for Shoulder Pathology and Pain in Chronic SCI

This research study will investigate in a 12-week home exercise program to see whether it is effective in improving shoulder pathology and reducing shoulder pain in persons with chronic spinal cord injury. The research study will involve ultrasound shoulder examinations of your shoulders using a non-invasive medical ultrasound machine, as well as clinical shoulder examinations and completion of a number of pain questionnaires.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Candidates will be men or women, 18 years of age or older.
2. Candidates must have an SCI and be at least 1 year post-diagnosis
3. Candidates must use a wheelchair (manual or electric) for at least the majority of the time.
4. Candidates must be able to transfer themselves without the help of others.
5. The presence of at least moderate shoulder pain (rating of >= 4 on a 0-10 rating scale for average pain intensity) for 3 or more months.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients younger than 18 years of age.
2. Patients who have a history of pre-injury rotator cuff tears or shoulder injury.
3. Patients who do not use a wheelchair (manual or electric) at least 50% of the time.