Effectiveness of ultrasound-guided barbotage in reducing shoulder pain and improving function in supraspinatus calcific tendinitis

Abstract

Background: Supraspinatus calcific tendinitis is a common and often painful condition characterized by the deposition of calcium within the supraspinatus tendons. This study aimed to determine whether supraspinatus calcific tendonitis might be successfully treated using ultrasound (US)-guided barbotage. Methods: This single-arm interventional study included 40 patients aged ≥ 18, both sexes, diagnosed with supraspinatus calcific tendinitis through clinical and radiological evaluation. A diagnostic US was delivered to each patient, and they were also asked to self-evaluate their level of pain and disability in the affected area. At the first, third-, and sixth months post-treatment, they reevaluated the changes in pain and disability scores. Results: The pain score and disability score were significantly lower (1, 3, and 6 months) after treatment than before treatment (p