Treatment of Calcific Tendonitis of the Rotator Cuff: An Updated Review

Orthopedics. 2023 Nov-Dec;46(6):e326-e332. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20230901-01. Epub 2023 Sep 6.

Abstract

Rotator cuff calcific tendonitis (RCCT) is a disorder that can greatly impair patients' quality of life. A literature review was conducted to find the most effective and newest treatments for RCCT. PubMed and Cochrane Review databases were searched, without strict inclusion/exclusion criteria, for peer-reviewed articles between 1941 and 2021 that discussed RCCT etiology and treatments. If nonoperative measures (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and corticosteroids) are unsuccessful, other options include extracorporeal shockwave therapy, ultrasound-guided injection techniques, and minimally invasive surgery. Because RCCT can resolve spontaneously, patients should progress to invasive options only if conservative first-line treatments have failed. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(6):e326-e332.].

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Quality of Life
  • Rotator Cuff* / diagnostic imaging
  • Rotator Cuff* / surgery
  • Tendinopathy* / therapy

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones