The effectiveness of extracorporeal shockwave therapy for frozen shoulder in patients with diabetes: randomized control trial

[Purpose] This study examined the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus ultrasound therapy, combined with the mobilization and therapeutic exercise in both groups, in participants with diabetic frozen shoulder. [Participants and Methods] Twenty participants with diabetic frozen shoulder were divided into an experimental group who received extracorporeal shock wave therapy, mobilization and exercises (n=10, Mean: 43.70) and the control group who received ultrasound, mobilization and exercises (n=10 Mean: 45.50). The clinical outcomes, i.e., a) pain b) active range of motions of the shoulder, c) disability scores by Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scale and d) global rating of change was measured weekly for four weeks. [Results] Significant improvements in pain, all active range of motions and disability scores were observed at the end of the 4th week in both groups. Additionally, the experimental group benefitted significant pain reduction (median difference: 7 in experimental versus 6 in control group), reduced number of therapy sessions and thus the costs of treatment compared to the control group. [Conclusion] Extracorporeal shock wave therapy significantly reduced pain in people with diabetic frozen shoulder with a reduction of treatment cost compared to the control group.