Rotator cuff tendon calcific tendinitis treatment algorithm for primary care musculoskeletal physicians

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder is a prevalent condition.
• Understanding patient demographics and treatment outcomes is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze patient demographics associated with calcific tendinitis outcomes.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of various treatment modalities for shoulder calcific tendinitis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 237 patients diagnosed with calcific tendinitis (2014-2016).
• Data included demographics, symptoms, and treatment types.
• Outcomes assessed by symptom resolution and treatment received.

Main Results:

• Mean age of patients was 54.9 years; 141 females and 95 males.
• Smokers reported higher pain scores (VAS) at rest and activity.
• Post-treatment VAS scores: corticosteroid injection (3.9), ultrasound-guided needling (3.5), surgery (0.7).

Conclusions:

• Recommends initial management with subacromial corticosteroid injection and physical therapy.
• Ultrasound-guided injection with needling is the second-line treatment if initial therapy fails.
• Surgery is reserved for recalcitrant cases unresponsive to non-operative treatments.