Notch vs Midpoint Suprascapular Nerve PRF for Chronic Shoulder Pain

This study aims to compare the effects of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment of the suprascapular nerve using suprascapular notch and midpoint approaches on pain, shoulder function, and muscle strength in patients with chronic shoulder pain due to rotator cuff tendinopathy. Patients will be randomly assigned to one of the two intervention groups. Clinical evaluations will include pain assessment using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), functional assessment using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and quality of life assessment using the Short Form-36 (SF-36). In addition, shoulder range of motion will be measured goniometrically, muscle thickness of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus will be evaluated by ultrasonography, and shoulder muscle strength will be assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. Assessments will be performed at baseline, 24 hours, 1 month, and 3 months after the intervention. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the optimal approach for PRF treatment of the suprascapular nerve in patients with chronic shoulder pain.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged between 40 and 80 years * Patients with chronic shoulder pain lasting longer than 3 months * Patients diagnosed with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain * Patients who show at least 50% pain reduction after diagnostic suprascapular nerve block * Patients who provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Adhesive capsulitis * Previous shoulder surgery * Full-thickness rotator cuff tear * Neurological disorders affecting the shoulder * Pacemaker * Coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy contraindicating intervention * Infection at the injection site * Severe systemic disease * Pregnancy * Inability to comply with study protocol