Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

This is a randomized controlled trial in which patients with moderate to severe shoulder pain (Visual Analog Scale (VAS) \> 40), in the setting of rotator cuff tendinopathy refractory to conservative treatment, will be enrolled. The primary aim of the study is to estimate the effect of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) with physical therapy (PT) vs PT alone on the change in shoulder pain at 12-month follow up. Scientific objectives also include an assessment of safety of the intervention, assessment of changes in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Upper Extremity score, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) scores, MRI Tendinopathy Score between the TAE + PT and PT groups.

Rotator cuff tendinopathy, one of the pathologies identified as part of the cluster of shoulder symptoms known as subacromial pain syndrome, is a common musculoskeletal shoulder condition. Resolution of pain and disability is poor despite treatment, with only about 50% reporting full recovery at 12 - 18 months. Prior studies suggest therapeutic exercise when used alone and with other interventions can have positive outcomes; however, not all patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy respond. Few studies have assessed the effects of exercise for individuals with chronic pain, especially brain driven mechanisms, thought to play a key role. In this study, we will use brain imaging to understand the mechanisms, identify predictors of a positive response to exercise, and the relationship to biomechanical and pain-related factors in patients with RC tendinopathy. The findings from this study will optimize the delivery and treatment response to exercise for individuals with shoulder pain.

DJO UK Ltd (ENOVIS) is conducting this study to assess the effectiveness of LightForce® Therapy Lasers on pain reduction in shoulder soft tissue inflammation. In detail this study will assess superiority of LightForce® Therapy Lasers combined with standard of care, represented by physiotherapy/exercise program compared to sham laser combined with standard of care (physiotherapy/exercise program) on pain reduction in subjects with shoulder soft tissue inflammation due to Impingement (Subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS)) or Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy (RCT),. In addition, this study allows to collect post market clinical data on the safety and performance of LightForce® Therapy Lasers, when used, following the normal clinical practice, in accordance with its approved and CE marked intended use.