Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Neuromodulation on the Superior Gluteal Nerve in Patients With Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: A Pilot Study
Sponsor: Universidad de Zaragoza
Summary
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) predominantly affects women, with an annual incidence of 1.8 to 5.6 per 1000 individuals and a prevalence ratio of 4:1 compared to men. It is characterized by lateral pain in the greater trochanter region, particularly during palpation, prolonged sitting, and physical activity. Conservative treatments, such as radial shockwave therapy and therapeutic exercises, are effective but slow, and some patients eventually require surgery. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous neuromodulation, targeting the superior gluteal nerve, has emerged as a promising alternative to improve GTPS outcomes. This technique aims to normalize motor response and reduce pain more rapidly than conventional therapies. Integrating neuromodulation could accelerate recovery, enhancing both pain relief and tendon functionality. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of this technique as an adjunct to conventional treatments, aiming for faster symptom improvement and better long-term adherence.
Official title: Effectiveness of Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Neuromodulation (UG-PNM) on the Superior Gluteal Nerve in Patients With Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS): A Pilot Study
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
50
Start Date
2025-05-26
Completion Date
2026-09
Last Updated
2025-06-02
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Shockwave Therapy
The proposed model for radial shockwave therapy at Clínica Osteopática Dr. David Ponce is the DolorClast® by EMS, made in Nyon, Switzerland. Treatment parameters include 2500 impulses, 0.2 mJ/mm² energy density, and 15 pulses per second, using a 15 mm diameter applicator with ultrasound gel applied to the treatment area. The patient will be positioned laterally on the table with specific leg positions to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
Therapeutic Exercises
The exercise protocol was followed daily, with continuous physiotherapist supervision to ensure correct execution and avoid improper postures. The protocol includes four exercises: bilateral low-load supine abduction, unilateral isometric hip abduction in medial rotation, hip abduction with sliding, and bilateral supported glute bridge. A maximum of 4/10 on the VAS pain scale is allowed during exercise; exceeding this threshold means skipping exercises for that day.
Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Neuromodulation:
This technique was applied only to the experimental group before shockwave therapy. An ultrasound-guided approach to the superior gluteal nerve used a 7-12 MHz linear probe from Esaote MyLab™Alpha and Physio Invasiva® equipment. The needle length varied with patient anatomy, with a typical safety reference from 0.30 x 60 to 0.35 x 70 mm. A biphasic current with 10 Hz frequency and 240 μs pulse width was used, with intensity adjusted for a visible but non-painful motor response, following the 10-10-10 protocol. To locate the superior gluteal nerve, a longitudinal scan of the lateral iliac crest identified the nerve between the gluteus minimus and medius. The procedure used a short-axis approach at 80º to target the nerve's perineurium, with the area disinfected with chlorhexidine before needle insertion.
Locations (1)
University of Zaragoza
Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain