OBJECTIVETo observe the therapeutic effect of transcutaneous point electric stimulation on periarthritis of shoulder at different stages and compare with electroacupuncture.

METHODSThree hundred and sixty cases of periarthritis of shoulder at different stages were divided into a treatment group (n=186) treated with transcutaneous point electric stimulation, and a control group (n=174) treated with electroacupuncture. Same acupoints were selected in the two groups.

RESULTSThe total effective rate of transcutaneous point electric stimulation was 96.6% at the adhesion prophase and 96.9% at the adhesive stage, but electroacupuncture stimulation was 93.5% and 97.9%, respectively, with no significant differences between the two groups; transcutaneous point electric stimulation not only could relieve pain, but also significantly improve dysfunction of shoulder joints at the adhesive stage.

CONCLUSIONTranscutaneous point electric stimulation is an effective and convenient therapy for periarthritis of shoulder.