Abstract
Methods: 70 patients showing chronic, symptomatic, calcifying tendinitis of the shoulder were examined. A single blind randomised study was performed with 35 patients undergoing a regular treatment (group 1) and 35 a simulated one (group 2). Pain and functional assessment was carried out according to Constant and Murley. Variations in the dimension of the calcification were evaluated by anteroposterior x ray films.
Results: A significant decrease of pain and a significant increase in shoulder function was seen in group 1. Examination by x ray showed partial resorption of the calcium deposits in 40% of cases and complete resorption in 31% of cases in group 1. In the control group no significant decrease of pain and no significant increase in shoulder function was seen. No modifications were observed by x ray examination.
Conclusion: Because of its good tolerance, safety, and clinical radiological response, ESWT can be considered as an alternative treatment for chronic calcific tendinitis of the shoulder.
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Figure 1.
Mean Constant score before extracorporeal shock wave treatment (ESWT), after ESWT, and one and six months later. *p<0.001, group 1 v group 2; †p<0.001 group 1, baseline v after ESWT, after one month, and after six months.
Figure 2.
Radiograph of the shoulder before ESWT.
Figure 3.
The same patient as in fig 2 one month after the end of the treatment.