Date of Award
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Department
Physical Therapy; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Dr. Kerstin Palombaro
Second Advisor
Dr. Daria Porretta
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Eccentric exercise has been shown to reduce pain in patients with multiple comorbidities, orthopedic surgeries, and neurologic conditions, while providing safety for greater loading during resistance training. The purpose of this case report is to describe changes in function and pain of a patient with a partial rotator cuff tear, following rehabilitation exercises focusing on eccentric action.
Case Description: A 65 y/o retired police male officer who presented right shoulder pain secondary to a partial tear of the supraspinatus tendon. The case reported mild to severe pain under the visual analog scale (VAS) of 75mm that limited house activities, recreational pursuits like shooting, and disrupted sleep. Initial assessment using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH) scored 46 indicated moderate disability . The plan of care followed guidelines for rotator cuff tendinopathies with an emphasis on eccentric exercises.
Outcomes: After 12 weeks of intervention, the subject’s pain improved by 30mm on VAS during activities, and 12 points on DASH, allowing him to contribute more to household activities and go to the shooting range once a week.
Discussion: This case report intended to demonstrate the advantages of eccentric exercise in improving strength, tendon capacity, and reducing pain in rotator cuff tendinopathy. Although guidelines recommend exercise and manual therapy, limited evidence exists specifically for eccentric exercise in rotator cuff injuries. Further research, including images and outcome measures, is recommended to investigate the physiological effects of eccentric exercises on rotator cuff tendon healing.
Recommended Citation
Isea Fernandezx, German Eduardo, "Eccentric-Emphasis Exercise Program For Supraspinatus Partial Tear in Retired Police Officer an Intervention Case Report" (2025). Capstone Showcase. 1.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2025/pt/1
Eccentric-Emphasis Exercise Program For Supraspinatus Partial Tear in Retired Police Officer an Intervention Case Report
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Eccentric exercise has been shown to reduce pain in patients with multiple comorbidities, orthopedic surgeries, and neurologic conditions, while providing safety for greater loading during resistance training. The purpose of this case report is to describe changes in function and pain of a patient with a partial rotator cuff tear, following rehabilitation exercises focusing on eccentric action.
Case Description: A 65 y/o retired police male officer who presented right shoulder pain secondary to a partial tear of the supraspinatus tendon. The case reported mild to severe pain under the visual analog scale (VAS) of 75mm that limited house activities, recreational pursuits like shooting, and disrupted sleep. Initial assessment using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH) scored 46 indicated moderate disability . The plan of care followed guidelines for rotator cuff tendinopathies with an emphasis on eccentric exercises.
Outcomes: After 12 weeks of intervention, the subject’s pain improved by 30mm on VAS during activities, and 12 points on DASH, allowing him to contribute more to household activities and go to the shooting range once a week.
Discussion: This case report intended to demonstrate the advantages of eccentric exercise in improving strength, tendon capacity, and reducing pain in rotator cuff tendinopathy. Although guidelines recommend exercise and manual therapy, limited evidence exists specifically for eccentric exercise in rotator cuff injuries. Further research, including images and outcome measures, is recommended to investigate the physiological effects of eccentric exercises on rotator cuff tendon healing.