Ultrasound guided Needling vs Radial Shockwave Therapy in calcific tendinitis of the shoulder: A prospective randomized trial

Abstract

Purpose Ultrasound Needling(UN) and Radial Shockwave(RSWT) aim to dissolve deposits in Shoulder Calcific tendinitis. Methods RCT in 25 patients to compare short term effectiveness. Outcome measures were pain and functional outcome at 6 weeks and 1 year and decrease of deposits after 6 weeks. Results UN decreased deposit more than RSWT(P = 0.029). After 6 weeks, Constant, NRS and Oxford improved more in UN. After 1 year, there was no significant difference in NRS(p = 0.45) or Oxford(p = 0.32). Conclusion Compared to RSWT, UN resulted in lower pain and faster resorption of calcifications after 6 weeks. No significant differences were found after 1 year.