Efficacy of Single Injection of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Introduction To analyze the change in Visual Analog Scale (VAS), QuickDASH score, and the range of motion at the shoulder joint following a single injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in shoulder impingement syndrome. Methods Twenty patients (21 shoulders) of either sex above the age of 18 years with a clinical diagnosis of shoulder impingement having a positive shoulder impingement test (positive Hawkins-Kennedy impingement test and/or positive Neer's impingement sign), ultrasonographic confirmation of shoulder impingement, and a failure to respond to standard non-operative methods for a minimum period of four weeks were included in this prospective interventional study. PRP was injected at the proposed site. At three months after the injection, the changes in the VAS, QuickDASH score, and the range of motion at the shoulder joint were analyzed. Results There were significant changes in the VAS, QuickDASH score, and range of motion at the shoulder joint following a single injection of PRP. Conclusions Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection results in a significant decrease in pain and improvement in the range of motion and an overall excellent functional outcome in shoulder impingement syndrome. However, future studies with a bigger sample size and longer follow-up are needed.