Frozen shoulder: ultrasound gel or muscle exercises — which works better?
NCT ID NCT05475639
First seen Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study compares two treatments for frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): applying an anti-inflammatory gel through ultrasound (phonophoresis) versus a muscle relaxation exercise technique (post-isometric facilitation). About 45 adults aged 30–40 with the second stage of frozen shoulder will receive one of these treatments or standard physiotherapy three times a week for four weeks. Researchers will measure pain, pressure sensitivity, shoulder movement, and daily function to see which approach provides more relief.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Diclofenac gel (Voltaren) delivered via ultrasound
- What this could lead to
- If one treatment proves more effective, it could offer a simpler, drug-free option or a more targeted way to deliver pain relief for frozen shoulder.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with only 45 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Both treatments are generally safe but may not work for all cases.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Out patient clinic of faculty of physical therapy
Cairo, Egypt
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