According to the case reports published in an International Journal of Physical Therapy, Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, Laser testing emerges as a preliminary, clinically attainable approach to test and treat upper extremity proprioceptive deficits within people suffered from Rotator cuff (RTC) tendinopathy.

The incidences of RTC dysfunction extends from 7% to 25% with a high recurrence rate. As the RTC musculature performs a significant part in the dynamic stability of the glenohumeral joint and injury of these structures associated with proprioceptive impairments. The two case reports assessed a clinically feasible approach to retain the functioning of the RTC musculature.

The first case report was of a 21-year-old female suffered from right shoulder pain from injury at work while lifting the massive tray of plates. The second case was of a 48-year-old male suffered from gradual and insidious right shoulder pain during recreational baseball. Both participants found to have contractile tissue involvement. With accurate proprioceptive function, reaching and throwing tasks were required by every patient for the return to their functional tasks. A laser proprioception testing administered every two weeks along with proprioceptive training implemented as a supplement to other approaches.

Both patients showed improvements in pain and function at four weeks after the treatment. Further investigation is needed to verify the validity and reliability of these strategies.