Effectiveness of Passive Physical Modalities for Shoulder Pain: Systematic Review by the Ontario Protocol for Traffic Injury Management Collaboration

Abstract

Most passive physical modalities do not benefit patients with subacromial impingement syndrome. However, low-level laser therapy is more effective than placebo or ultrasound for subacromial impingement syndrome. Similarly, shock-wave therapy is more effective than sham therapy for persistent shoulder calcific tendinitis.