New Way to Treat Bone Spurs
In this study low-energy sound waves of energy were used to treat calcium deposits in the shoulder. Two ways to find the deposits were used and the results compared.
In the first group patients pointed to the area of greatest tenderness. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) was directed to that area. In group 2 a special X-ray unit called fluoroscopy was used to locate the center of the calcium deposit.
In the second group, a computer calculated just the right angle and the best distance to give the most precise shock wave focus. Both groups had pain relief and improved motion. The navigation group had much better results when measured by the disappearance of the calcium deposits.
The authors conclude a navigation system is the best way to find and treat calcium deposits when using ESWT.
References: Manuel Sabeti-Aschraf, MD, et al. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in the Treatment of Calcific Tendinitis of the Rotator Cuff. In The American Journal of Sports Medicine. September 2005. Vol. 33. No. 9. Pp. 1365-1368.
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