Current knowledge on evidence-based shockwave treatments for shoulder pathology

Abstract

Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal pathologies. Treatment by ESWT (extracorporeal shockwave therapy) has emerged as an alternative when conservative treatment fails in rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy, prior to invasive procedures. The clinical efficacy of ESWT in non-calcific tendinopathy remains controversial. The good results in the treatment of rotator cuff calcifications, have led to indications of ESWT being expanded to other shoulder pathologies. We review the current state of indications and evidence based practice.

Keywords: Calcific tendinopathy; Extracorporeal shockwave therapy; Rotator cuff tendinopathy; Shoulder.