Comparison of the Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy and Therapeutic Ultrasound in Patients with Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy.

研究概要

Seventy patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy were randomized to receive therapeutic ultrasound (n=35) or low-level laser therapy (n=35), each combined with hot packs, TENS, and a structured home-based exercise program for 15 sessions over 3 weeks. The primary outcomes were pain (VAS), function (SPADI, CMS, DASH), and hand grip strength (HGS). Secondary outcomes included depression (BDI), anxiety (BAI), sleep quality (PSQI), and quality of life (SF-36). Assessments were performed at baseline, 1, 4, and 12 weeks. Overall, both groups showed significant improvements in all primary and secondary measures over time, with no between-group differences except for greater HGS improvement in the ultrasound group. These findings suggest that both modalities are effective for managing rotator cuff tendinopathy, with ultrasound having an advantage for grip strength.