Real Dry Needling and Placebo Dry Needling Applied With and Without Ultrasound Guidance on the Infraspinatus Muscle

The infraspinatus muscle is one of the four muscles that form the rotator cuff. The dry needling technique involves inserting a sterile needle to stimulate a myofascial trigger point with the aim of reducing pain and increasing range of motion and quality of life. This technique can be performed using ultrasound guidance, which allows us to visualize the needle at all times, but it can also be done using anatomical landmarks. This study includes a self-directed exercise plan for rotator cuff tendinopathy. Variables such as strength, shoulder functionality level, grip strength, and active range of motion will be measured. As part of the intervention, two dry needling sessions will be performed, 14 days apart, along with two different exercise programs. Three measurements will be taken, and the intervention will last for 6 weeks. The sample will be divided into four equal groups: Group 1: ultrasound-guided real dry needling; Group 2: ultrasound-guided placebo dry needling; Group 3: non-ultrasound-guided real dry needling; and Group 4: non-ultrasound-guided placebo dry needling