Platelet-Rich plasma vs corticosteroid for primary frozen shoulder: Meta-analysis of randomized trials.

Study Summary

7 randomized controlled trials including 692 patients with primary frozen shoulder (PFS) were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing intra-articular platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with corticosteroid (CS) injections. Pooled outcomes included pain, shoulder range of motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPDI) scores, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder scores, and complications. Pain and function were comparable between treatments during the first month. However, PRP produced greater improvements in pain, function, and range of motion at 3 and 6 months. Complication rates were similarly low, suggesting that PRP may provide more sustained clinical benefits than CS without compromising safety.