Clinical Study on Appropriate Energy of Extracorporeal Shock Wave for Rotator Cuff Non-calcific Tendinopathy Treatment

Objective: This study aims to investigate the short-term clinical efficacy of extracorporeal shock waves with different energy levels on rotator cuff non-calcific tendinopathy. Materials and Methods: A total of 139 patients with rotator cuff rotator non-calcific tendinopathy were randomly divided into eight groups based on the different energy levels of the Dornier Aries smart focus shock wave therapy device: Level 5, 2000 shocks (0.062 mJ/mm2), Level 6, 2000 shocks (0.084 mJ/mm2), Level 7, 2000 shocks (0.096 mJ/mm2), Level 8, 2000 shocks (0.117 mJ/mm2), Level 5, 3000 shocks (0.062 mJ/mm2), Level 6, 3000 shocks (0.084 mJ/mm2), Level 7, 3000 shocks (0.096 mJ/mm2), and Level 8, 3000 shocks (0.117 mJ/mm2). Each group received shock wave treatment corresponding to the respective energy level and shock count. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and Constant-Murley score (CMS) were compared before and 1, 2, and 4 weeks after treatment to determine the short-term efficacy. Results: The VAS scores of all groups significantly decreased at 1, 2, and 4 weeks after treatment compared to before treatment. The VAS score of the Level 7, 2000 shocks (0.096 mJ/mm2) group was significantly lower than the other groups (P < 0.05). The CMS scores of all groups significantly increased at 1, 2, and 4 weeks after treatment compared to before treatment. The CMS score of the Level 7, 2000 shocks (0.096 mJ/mm2) group was significantly higher than the other groups (P < 0.05). There was significant statistical difference in the effective rate among the eight groups (P > 0.05). No serious adverse reactions were observed in any group before or after the treatment. Conclusion: Extracorporeal shock wave therapy for rotator cuff rotator non-calcific tendinopathy can alleviate shoulder joint pain, improve shoulder joint function, and enhance patients quality of life with good efficacy. The optimal therapeutic effect was observed at an energy level of 0.096 mJ/mm2 and 2000 shocks. Keywords: Rotator cuff injury, Rotator cuff non-calcific tendinopathy, Extracorporeal shock wave therapy