FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES OF ADHESIVE CAPSULITIS TREATED WITH GROWTH FACTOR THERAPY VERSUS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Background: Adhesive capsulitis is a disabling musculoskeletal condition characterized by progressive pain and restriction of both active and passive shoulder movements. The pathology involves capsular inflammation followed by fibrosis, leading to significant functional limitation. Conventional treatment modalities, including nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs, physiotherapy, and corticosteroid injections, primarily provide symptomatic relief and may not adequately address the underlying disease process. Biological therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and growth factor–based injections have emerged as promising regenerative treatment options targeting the underlying pathology. Purpose: The present study aims to compare the functional outcomes of intra-articular growth factor therapy and platelet rich plasma injections in patients with adhesive capsulitis using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score. Methods: This prospective comparative study included ten patients diagnosed clinically with adhesive capsulitis. Patients were divided into two groups: five treated with growth factor therapy and five treated with PRP injections. Functional outcomes were assessed using the DASH score at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-injection. Results: All patients demonstrated progressive improvement in functional outcomes. The growth factor group showed earlier improvement in pain and range of motion, particularly within the first month, whereas the PRP group demonstrated gradual and sustained improvement. At 6 months, both groups showed significant reduction in DASH scores, with slightly better outcomes in the growth factor group. Conclusion: Both growth factor therapy and PRP are safe and effective treatment modalities for adhesive capsulitis. Growth factor therapy may provide faster early recovery, while PRP offers sustained long-term improvement. These therapies may act as disease-modifying interventions by addressing the underlying inflammatory and fibrotic processes. Level of Evidence: Level III