Work

The efficacy of high load-volume exercise versus low load-volume exercise for rotator cuff tendinopathy: A pilot and feasibility trial

Year: 2024

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: The most effective exercise variables for rotator cuff tendinopathy are unknown. Determine feasibility of a fully powered trial comparing high load-volume versus low load-volume exercise for adults with rotator cuff tendinopathy. Two arm, multi-centre pilot and feasibility randomised controlled trial. Participants aged over 18 were recruited via social media and randomised into 12 weeks of either high load-volume exercise (i.e. with dumbbell resistance) or low load-volume exercise (i.e. without added resistance). Feasibility outcomes were rates of recruitment, retention, questionnaire completion, adverse events and adherence to prescribed exercise. Fifteen participants were randomised to high load-volume and 16 to low load-volume (18/31 were female). Retention rate was 84% at 6 weeks, and 81% at 12 and 26 weeks. Five participants withdrew and one participant was lost to follow up. Questionnaire completion rate was 78%. Adherence to the prescribed exercise sets was 77%. Recruitment, conversion and retention rates were above the pre-defined success criterion. There were no serious adverse events. A fully powered multi-centre randomised trial is feasible with minor amendments addressing exercise adherence and questionnaire response rate. Future trials should utilise outcomes that consider participants baseline physical activity levels and adequately measure pain disparate from performance. • A high versus low load-volume intervention is feasible for a fully powered trial. • Minor changes should address adherence, questionnaire response rate and withdrawals. • Preliminary data in this pilot shows similar pain and function outcomes. • A large scale trial should account for time to recovery and peak performance demands. • The high load-volume group showed greater strength improvement.

Source: Musculoskeletal Science and Practice

DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2024.103218

Authors: Josh Naunton, Dawson Kidgell, Kim Bennell, Terry Haines, Peter Malliaras

Institutions: La Trobe University, Bendigo Health, Monash University, The University of Melbourne

Language: English

Topic: Shoulder Injury and Treatment

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,400