Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal condition that can lead to significant functional limitation and reduced quality of life. Conventional treatments often provide limited or temporary relief, highlighting the need for alternative approaches targeting peripheral pain mechanisms.
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Perineural Injection Treatment (PIT) compared to Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) in reducing pain and improving functional outcomes in patients with subacute or chronic shoulder pain.
In this randomized controlled trial, participants are assigned to receive either PIT or TENS, in addition to a standardized exercise program. The intervention is delivered over two sessions within a two-week period. Pain intensity is assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and functional outcomes are measured using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire.
The results of this study are expected to provide evidence on the comparative effectiveness of PIT and TENS, and to support clinical decision-making in the management of shoulder pain.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Adults aged 18-65 years
* Patients with subacute or chronic shoulder pain
* Pain intensity ≥ 3 on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS)
* Diagnosed with shoulder conditions such as adhesive capsulitis, rotator cuff tendinopathy or tear, glenohumeral osteoarthritis, acromioclavicular joint sprain, or biceps tendinopathy
* Able to provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of injection therapy or use of analgesic medications within one week prior to intervention
* Presence of neurological or systemic diseases affecting upper limb function
* Pregnancy
* Contraindications to injection therapy (e.g., infection at injection site, needle phobia, allergy to dextrose)
* Refusal to participate or inability to complete the study protocol
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Pain Intensity Measured by Numeric Rating Scale (NRS)