Dual-task shoulder exercise program for rotator cuff–related pain
The Effect of a Dual-Task Technique-Based Exercise Program on Clinical Outcomes in Rotator Cuff Related Shoulder Pain
NA · Istanbul University · NCT07415967
This trial tests whether doing shoulder exercises together with simple cognitive tasks helps adults with rotator cuff–related shoulder pain reduce pain and improve function compared with standard shoulder exercises.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 46 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Istanbul University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul) |
| Trial ID | NCT07415967 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized study will enroll 46 adults with rotator cuff–related shoulder pain and assign them to either a dual-task exercise group or a standard exercise group, with both groups also receiving patient education. The dual-task group will perform supervised shoulder exercises concurrently with cognitive tasks, while the standard group will perform the same physical exercises without cognitive components. Sessions occur twice weekly for 6 weeks (12 sessions total), with assessments at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Primary outcome is pain intensity (NPRS) and secondary outcomes include shoulder function (Q-DASH, ASES) and psychosocial measures (PCS, TSK-11).
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults 18–65 with rotator cuff tendinopathy, subacromial pain or partial rotator cuff tear, pain ≥3/10 for at least 3 months, and no full-thickness tear, recent shoulder surgery, recent physiotherapy/injection, or cognitive impairment are the intended participants.
Not a fit: Patients with full-thickness or massive rotator cuff tears, adhesive capsulitis, shoulder instability, recent shoulder surgery, significant cognitive impairment, or other conditions that prevent safe participation in exercise are unlikely to benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, combining cognitive tasks with shoulder exercises could lead to greater pain relief, improved shoulder function, and reduced pain-related fear and catastrophizing than standard rehabilitation.
How similar studies have performed: Dual-task exercise approaches have shown promise in other rehabilitation areas but are relatively novel for rotator cuff–related shoulder pain with limited direct evidence so far.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged between 18 and 65 years * Diagnosis of impingement syndrome, subacromial bursitis, rotator cuff tendinopathy, or partial rotator cuff tear * Shoulder pain level ≥3 according to the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) * Shoulder pain persisting for at least 3 months Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of shoulder instability, adhesive capsulitis, or full-thickness or massive rotator cuff tear * Presence of musculoskeletal, neurological, and/or psychological conditions that would prevent participation in an exercise program * History of shoulder surgery * Having received physiotherapy or corticosteroid injection treatment for shoulder pain within the past 6 months * Presence of cognitive impairment that would prevent participation in dual-task exercise activities
Where this trial is running
Istanbul
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa — Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye) (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: İrem Ece İçöz, Bachelor's degree
- Email: iremece.icoz@ogr.iuc.edu.tr
- Phone: 90+ 5511040686
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Rotator Cuff Related Shoulder Pain, Shoulder Pain Syndrome, Subacromial Pain Syndrome, Rotator cuff, Shoulder pain, Dual-task exercise