Comparison of Dry Needling and Deep Friction Massage in Patients With Subacromial Pain Syndrome

Comparison of Dry Needling and Deep Friction Massage in Patients With Subacromial Pain Syndrome: 1-year Follow-up of a Randomized Controlled Trial

This study was planned to investigate the effects of Trigger Point-Dry Needling Therapy (TP-DNT) on night pain and Shoulder Internal Rotation (SIR) in individuals with Subacromial Pain Syndrome (SPS).

Shoulder pain seen intensely in the general population, many methods has been used for the treatment which has not been fully proven to be superior to each other. Before considering surgical approaches, trying conservative approaches is emphasized. While literature showed us that nighttime pain is an important musculoskeletal symptom, may be associated with local inflammation, it is an important feature during the treatment planning. TP-DNT had positive effects on night pain and SIR in SPS. It was seen that the treatment satisfaction level of participants was high. Despite these positive findings, there is need for further studies in which sample size is increased, control group is added, and long-term follow-up is planned.

Inclusion Criteria:

• To be able to read and speak Turkish well enough to give informed consent and follow the working instructions.
• Having complaints of unilateral shoulder pain for at least 6 months and being diagnosed with subacromial impingement syndrome.
• Having night pain
• Having active trigger point.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Bilateral shoulder pain
• If there is a contraindicated condition for needles such as fear of needles or infection
• History of bleeding disorder
• Shoulder fracture and / or dislocation history
• Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy and / or neuropathy
• The use of antiaggregants, anticoagulants, analgesics or antiinflammatory drugs or drug-like substances (1 week before or during treatment)
• Fibromyalgia syndrome
• Any neurological, motor, or sensory disorder in the upper extremity
• History of surgery on shoulder or neck
• Conservative or invasive physical therapy or infiltration for the shoulder region during the last 6 months
• Pregnancy