PRP vs Corticosteroids vs Lidocaine for Joint Pain
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study will compare three different treatment injections for the management of acromioclavicular joint dysfunction (ACJ Dysfunction). Patients that consent and enroll will be randomized to receive (1) a corticosteroid injection, (2) an injection of Platelet Rich Plasma, or (3) a Lidocaine injection. Follow-up will occur over a 1 year period.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you've had any injections or surgery for the affected shoulder in the last year, you cannot participate.
What data supports the idea that PRP vs Corticosteroids vs Lidocaine for Joint Pain is an effective treatment?
The available research shows that both PRP and corticosteroid injections are effective in reducing pain, stiffness, and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis for up to six months. In a study comparing these treatments, both showed similar improvements, with no significant difference between them. Another study on de Quervain's tenosynovitis found that both PRP and corticosteroid injections were equally effective in reducing symptoms, but PRP had fewer complications. This suggests that while both treatments work well, PRP might have a slight advantage in terms of safety.12345
What safety data exists for PRP, corticosteroid, and lidocaine injections for joint pain?
The safety data for PRP and corticosteroid injections indicate that both treatments are generally safe and effective for joint pain, with some differences in complication profiles. PRP injections have been associated with fewer complications compared to corticosteroid injections, which can cause side effects like subcutaneous fat atrophy, depigmentation, and temporary pain increase. No major complications were reported for PRP in the studies reviewed. Lidocaine, often used as a local anesthetic, is not specifically addressed in the provided studies, but it is generally considered safe for local use in medical procedures. Further research, particularly long-term studies, is needed to fully understand the safety profiles of these treatments.25678
Is the treatment Corticosteroid Injection, Lidocaine injection, Protein Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection promising for joint pain?
Yes, both corticosteroid and PRP injections are promising treatments for joint pain. They are effective in reducing pain and improving function in conditions like knee osteoarthritis and lumbar spondylosis. PRP may offer longer-lasting benefits and fewer complications compared to corticosteroids.12457
Research Team
Daniel Rhon, DSc
Principal Investigator
Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for TRICARE beneficiaries aged 18-65 with AC joint pain, who can consent in English and have tenderness or pain during specific tests. Excluded are those with recent invasive shoulder treatments, leaving the military soon, systemic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, shoulder infections/fractures/dislocations, severe AC Joint separations (Grades III-VI), or allergies to corticosteroids.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Corticosteroid Injection (Corticosteroid)
- Lidocaine injection (Procedure)
- Protein Rich Plasma(PRP) Injection (Procedure)
Corticosteroid Injection is already approved in Canada for the following indications:
- Acromioclavicular joint pain
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Rotator cuff disease
- Adhesive capsulitis
- Glenohumeral osteoarthritis
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Brooke Army Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
Collaborator
The Geneva Foundation
Collaborator
Madigan Army Medical Center
Collaborator