Quick answer: Shockwave therapy has some of its strongest research for calcific tendinitis of the shoulder, where calcium deposits form in the rotator cuff tendons. A 2014 systematic review found high-energy shockwave improved pain and function and could clear the deposits in chronic calcific tendinitis, but did not do better than placebo for shoulder tendinitis without calcium. At Forward Spine Center in Golden Valley, Dr. Timothy Klesk, DC, certified through The Academy of Shockwave Excellence, examines your shoulder and reviews any imaging before recommending it.
What is calcific tendinitis?
Calcific tendinitis is a buildup of calcium deposits in one of the rotator cuff tendons, most often the supraspinatus at the top of the shoulder. It can cause a deep ache, pain lifting the arm overhead, and pain lying on that side at night. It is usually diagnosed on an X-ray or ultrasound. If you have shoulder pain but no imaging, an exam comes first, and you may be referred for imaging.
What does the research say?
A systematic review in the Annals of Internal Medicine looked at 28 randomized controlled trials. It concluded that high-energy shockwave therapy is effective for improving pain and shoulder function in chronic calcific shoulder tendinitis and can result in complete resolution of the calcifications. It found no significant difference between shockwave and placebo for shoulder tendinitis without calcium deposits (Bannuru et al., Ann Intern Med 2014). Two practical points follow:
- The diagnosis matters. Shockwave has much better support when calcium deposits are confirmed than for general shoulder pain.
- The type and energy of shockwave matters. The strongest results were for high-energy treatment. Ask any provider which type of device they use and how it compares with the research.
What does a shoulder shockwave plan look like at Forward Spine Center?
- Exam and imaging review. Dr. Klesk checks your shoulder movement and strength, reviews any X-ray or ultrasound reports, and rules out pain coming from the neck.
- Shockwave sessions, if appropriate. Gel is applied and acoustic waves are delivered over the affected tendon with a handheld applicator. Sessions are short.
- Shoulder rehab. Rotator cuff and shoulder blade strengthening, plus mobility work, to restore the shoulder's capacity.
- Whole-picture care. Chiropractic, acupuncture and rehab are under one roof if your neck or upper back are part of the problem. See the conditions we treat.
When should you see a medical doctor instead?
See a medical provider promptly if shoulder pain followed a fall or injury, if you suddenly cannot lift your arm, if there is significant swelling, redness, warmth or fever, or if shoulder or arm pain comes with chest pain, shortness of breath or sweating. Call 911 for chest pain.
Frequently asked questions
Can shockwave therapy break up calcium deposits in the shoulder?
Research on high-energy shockwave for chronic calcific tendinitis has shown it can reduce or clear calcium deposits in some patients, along with improving pain and function. Results vary from person to person.
Does shockwave help shoulder pain without calcium deposits?
The evidence is much weaker. A 2014 systematic review found no significant difference from placebo for shoulder tendinitis without calcium. For that kind of shoulder pain, other parts of a rehab plan usually come first.
Do I need an X-ray before shoulder shockwave therapy?
Imaging is how calcific tendinitis is confirmed. Bring any X-ray or ultrasound reports you have. If you do not have imaging, Dr. Klesk will tell you after the exam whether you should get it.
Does shoulder shockwave therapy hurt?
Most people feel a strong tapping or pulsing that can be uncomfortable over the sore spot. Intensity is adjusted to your comfort.
Where can I get shockwave therapy for shoulder pain in the Twin Cities?
Forward Spine Center, 701 Decatur Ave N, Ste 102, Golden Valley, MN, serving Golden Valley, Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Plymouth and the west metro. Book online or call 763-332-2680.
Keep reading
- Shockwave therapy at Forward Spine Center
- Does shockwave therapy work for chronic pain?
- Shockwave vs. cortisone vs. PRP for chronic tendon pain
- Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Shockwave therapy for tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
Written by Dr. Timothy Klesk, DC, certified in shockwave therapy through The Academy of Shockwave Excellence. Published . This article is educational and is not a substitute for an in-person evaluation.
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