Comparison of the Efficacy of Hyaluronic Acid Versus Corticosteroids, Platelet-Rich Plasma, and Physical Therapy in Chronic Shoulder Pain: A Systematic Review and a Frequentist Network Meta-Analysis.
Annachiara Marra, Andrea Uriel de Siena, Carmine Iacovazzo et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and frequentist network meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of hyaluronic acid (HA) versus corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma, and physical therapy in adults with chronic shoulder pain. The analysis included 14 studies, revealing that physical therapy significantly reduced pain at rest, at night, and during activity compared to HA-HMW and HA-LMW at 3 and 6 months, with a mean difference of -3.02 at 3 months.
Key findings
- Physical therapy reduced pain at rest compared to HA-HMW with a mean difference of -3.02 at 3 months.
- HA-HMW showed moderate efficacy in adhesive capsulitis.
- Physical therapy was superior for flexion and external rotation at 6 months in tendinopathy.
- HA improved functional status compared to HA-LMW at 3 months.
Why it matters
Understanding the comparative effectiveness of treatment options for chronic shoulder pain is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. This study highlights the potential benefits of physical therapy over hyaluronic acid injections, guiding clinicians in treatment decisions.