A comparison of the effectiveness of subacromial injection and suprascapular nerve block in chronic shoulder pain

Abstract

Aim: Despite the frequent use of local injections for shoulder pain, previous trials revealed conflicting results. In this research, we aimed to assess and compare the efficacy of suprascapular nerve block (SNB) and subacromial steroid injection (SSI) in improving pain, quality of life, functional status and sleep quality in patients with chronic shoulder pain. Methods: Sixty patients with chronic shoulder pain were enrolled in this study. Thirty patients received SSI and 30 underwent SNB. Initial examinations before injection and in the first week and first and third months after injection were recorded. Pain intensity levels, shoulder functions, sleep quality and quality of life were assessed at each follow-up visit using a visual analogue scale, shoulder pain and disability index, Pittsburgh sleep quality index, and the health assessment questionnaire, respectively. Results: A statistically significant improvement was observed in terms of pain and all clinical parameters from the first week after injection in both groups, but no significant difference was observed between the groups. Conclusion: SNB or SSI combined with exercise significantly reduces pain and increase shoulder functions, sleep and quality of life in patients with chronic shoulder pain.