Comparing corticosteroid and PRP injections for shoulder arthritis treatment

Prospective, Double Blind, Randomized Control Trial Comparing the Efficacy of Intra-articular Injections for the Treatment of Primary Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis

Not applicable Interventional Rush University Medical Center · NCT04949087

This study tests whether corticosteroid injections or PRP injections work better to relieve pain for people with shoulder arthritis.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorRush University Medical Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT04949087 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of intra-articular corticosteroid injections compared to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for treating primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis. It focuses on patients who have been diagnosed with this condition and are experiencing significant pain. The goal is to provide symptomatic relief and potentially delay the need for shoulder surgery. By comparing these two treatment options, the study seeks to clarify their therapeutic benefits in managing shoulder arthritis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of primary glenohumeral arthritis and a pain level greater than 4 on the VAS scale.

Not a fit: Patients with secondary causes of arthritis or recent shoulder surgeries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could offer patients effective non-surgical treatment options for shoulder arthritis, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar injection therapies for joint pain, suggesting potential efficacy for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient ≥18y.o. of age
* Primary glenohumeral arthritis (bone on bone or near bone on bone) that has been previously diagnosed on radiographs and clinical evaluation.
* Baseline pain level of VAS \>4

Exclusion Criteria:

* Secondary causes of arthritis (i.e. septic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, post-traumatic arthritis)
* Ipsilateral shoulder surgery within 1 year
* Any glenohumeral joint injection within 3 months
* Allergy to lidocaine
* Known pregnancy
* Workers compensation case regarding shoulder

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Arthritis Shoulder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.