Role of dynamic ultrasound imaging and ultrasound guided injections in shoulder joint pain

Abstract

Background: Shoulder pain, a prevalent musculoskeletal condition, significantly impacts quality of life. Dynamic ultrasound imaging and ultrasound-guided injections offer potential improvements in diagnosis and treatment, yet their efficacy remains under investigation. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and precision of dynamic ultrasound imaging and ultrasound-guided injections in diagnosing and treating shoulder pain. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 50 patients experiencing shoulder pain. Inclusion criteria were adults over 18 with chronic pain. Exclusion criteria included recent shoulder surgery, severe systemic diseases, or pregnancy. All patients underwent dynamic ultrasound for injury assessment and ultrasound-guided injections. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 4-6 weeks post-treatment using VAS, SDQ, and ROM measurements. Results: Pre-treatment VAS and SDQ scores averaged 7.6 and 70.2, respectively. Post-treatment, VAS decreased to 3.7, and SDQ improved to 40.5 (both p < 0.001). ROM improved significantly in all planes (p < 0.001). Rotator cuff tears showed the greatest post-treatment improvement (VAS = 3.5 ± 1.0). Corticosteroids showed the lowest post-treatment VAS (3.5 ± 1.0), though injection type differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.08). Regression analysis identified pre-treatment VAS as the strongest predictor of post-treatment outcomes (R² = 0.878, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Dynamic ultrasound imaging and ultrasound-guided injections effectively reduce pain and improve function in shoulder pain patients, with pre-treatment pain scores being a significant predictor of outcomes. Further studies are needed to refine treatment strategies.