Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation
-
Arch Phys Med Rehabil · Aug 2016
Review Meta AnalysisComparison of the Effectiveness of Suprascapular Nerve Block With Physical Therapy, Placebo, and Intra-Articular Injection in Management of Chronic Shoulder Pain: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
To explore the effectiveness of suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) at different timing after administration compared with physical therapy, placebo, and intra-articular injections in patients with chronic shoulder pain. ⋯ This meta-analysis demonstrated the superiority of SSNB to placebo and physical therapy and a similar efficacy of SSNB compared with intra-articular injection for treatment of chronic shoulder pain. Ultrasound was the most preferable guidance tool, and future studies are advised to integrate physical therapy in order to improve the long-term effectiveness of SSNB.