Effect of Transfer Energy Capacitive Resistive Therapy on Shoulder Pain and Function in Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Effect of Transfer Energy Capacitive Resistive Therapy on Shoulder Pain and Function in Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

This study investigates the efficacy of combining Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR) therapy with standard strengthening exercises in treating Shoulder Impingement Syndrome (SIS). A double-blinded randomized controlled trial will compare outcomes between patients receiving only strengthening exercises and those receiving both TECAR therapy and exercises. Key outcomes include improvements in pain, muscle strength, joint position sense, and shoulder function. The study aims to determine if TECAR therapy enhances treatment benefits beyond those achieved with exercises alone.

Background: Shoulder Impingement Syndrome (SIS) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain and functional impairment due to the compression of rotator cuff tendons beneath the coracoacromial arch. Despite the effectiveness of conservative treatments such as strengthening exercises, there is emerging interest in additional modalities, including Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR) therapy. TECAR therapy utilizes high-frequency electromagnetic waves to provide deep thermal energy, potentially enhancing tissue repair and pain relief.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combining TECAR therapy with a standard strengthening exercise regimen compared to strengthening exercises alone in patients with SIS.

Methods: A double-blinded randomized controlled trial will be conducted with 30 participants diagnosed with Neer's Stage I SIS. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a control group receiving only strengthening exercises or an experimental group receiving both TECAR therapy and strengthening exercises. The study will assess pain, shoulder muscle strength, joint position sense, and shoulder function using a range of validated instruments including the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Hand-Held Dynamometer (HHD), Digital Inclinometer, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Both gender age from 25-40 with a clinical diagnosis of Neer's stage II SIS and body mass index (18.5-29.9)

  • Shoulder pain for at least three months
  • Painful arc of movement during flexion or abduction
  • Positive Neer's or kennedy- hawkins test or empty can test
  • Pain on resisted external rotation, abduction

Exclusion Criteria:

• Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy.

  • Diagnosed inflammatory disorder.
  • Neurological disorder.
  • Widespread pain condition.
  • Evidence of complete rotator cuff tear (positive drop arm test).
  • Previous surgery to the affected shoulder.
  • Noncompliance patient.
  • Pacemaker.