Highlights
-
Today’s Research Article: PRP vs. Steroids—Which Wins for Frozen Shoulder? One leads to better movement, less pain, and lasting results.
-
Questions from the Field: Should You Use Protein Concentrate in Every Case? Dr. Ariana DeMers reveals when it’s a game-changer—and when to skip it.
-
Let’s Get Down to Business: Want Higher Profits in Your Cash-Based Practice? Master pricing, cut unnecessary costs, and boost revenue with these smart strategies.
-
Come Join Us: BOB Live at IOF: Save the date for Feb 27, 2025, in Scottsdale, AZ—an event you don’t want to miss!
If this newsletter was forwarded to you and you'd like to receive future updates directly, subscribe here.
Today’s Research Article
Comparison of Functional Outcome Between Intra-Articular Injection of Corticosteroid Versus Platelet-Rich Plasma in Frozen Shoulder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Hafiz Faisal Shahzad , Muhammad Taqi , Syed Faraz Ul Hassan Shah Gillani , Faisal Masood , Munawar Ali
Summary:
A randomized controlled trial conducted at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, compared the effectiveness of intra-articular corticosteroid injections versus platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in treating frozen shoulder (FS). The study included 202 patients aged 40–70 years, measuring improvements in range of motion (ROM), pain levels using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and functional outcomes using the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score. Patients who received PRP injections showed significantly greater improvement in ROM and pain reduction compared to those who received corticosteroids. Specifically, PRP-treated patients demonstrated superior shoulder flexion, abduction, and rotational movement, indicating its potential as a more effective treatment option.
The study concluded that PRP injections provide better long-term functional outcomes for FS than corticosteroids. PRP promotes healing by delivering concentrated growth factors and enhancing tissue regeneration, whereas corticosteroids primarily reduce inflammation but may not support long-term recovery. Given the superior improvement in shoulder function, pain reduction, and overall patient outcomes, the researchers recommend considering PRP as a preferred treatment option for FS over corticosteroid injections.
Talking Points for Doctors to Patients: Why Choose PRP
