Functional outcome of non-operative management in chronic supraspinatus tear among geriatric population: A prospective study

Abstract

Introduction: Supraspinatus tear is an important shoulder condition evading proper diagnosis, thus requiring thorough clinical and diagnostic evaluation. Relatively under diagnosed in geriatric population. Debate exists over how to best provide pain relief, restore shoulder function, and to assess the effectiveness of a non-operative physical therapy program in treating rotator cuff tears in elderly patients. Methods: A total of 150 patients of supraspinatus injury were analyzed prospectively over a period of 18 months from June 2018 to November 2019 to assess the non-operative management in geriatric population. With an oral NSAID from the start of the study, a four phased physiotherapy regimen was followed.Results: At the end of the study patients were assessed with VAS score, range of movements and a simple questionnaire of modified UCLA score. 105 of 150 came for follow up at phase II out of which 68.57 % had good or excellent scores. And 95 of 150 completed all 4 phases with 84.21 % having good or excellent results with significant improvements in abduction of the shoulder joint. Conclusion: For chronic supraspinatus injuries this simple modality of rehabilitation exercises can reduce pain and improve function of the shoulder. Thus, surgical treatment for chronic injury is not necessary if conservative treatment is strictly followed in geriatric group.