A conservative management protocol for calcific tendinitis of the shoulder.
OBJECTIVE
This paper presents a management protocol for calcific tendinitis and describes its effective application in 2 cases of calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus tendon in middle-aged women.


METHODS
Two patients presented to a chiropractic clinic with previously diagnosed calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus tendon. Both patients complained of chronic pain and tenderness in the shoulder region and had a limited range of shoulder motion as a result of the pain. Radiographs demonstrated calcific deposits in the region of the supraspinatus tendon.


RESULTS
Both patients were admitted to a treatment protocol involving approximately 20 sessions of phonophoresis (driving of medication into tissue by ultrasound) with Movelat cream followed by cross-friction massage to the supraspinatus tendon and range of motion exercises. A second set of radiographs was requested. The calcific deposits, clearly seen on the previous radiographs, were no longer visible, and symptoms were resolved. At 4-month follow up, both patients continued to be symptom-free.


CONCLUSIONS
The result of these studies indicates that the management of calcific tendinitis falls within the scope of chiropractic practice and supports the use of a trial period of conservative management in cases of calcific tendinitis before consideration of surgical treatment.
Gimblett
P A
PA
Saville
J
J
Ebrall
P
P
D002114:Calcinosis; D002684:Chiropractic / Q000379:methods; D002908:Chronic Disease; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D059408:Pain Management; D011859:Radiography; D012782:Shoulder / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D052256:Tendinopathy / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*