The Effect of Doppler Ultrasound on Calcified Tendinitis: a Double Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder is a condition where calcium phosphate crystals build up in the rotator cuff tendons, causing pain and reduced shoulder movement that affects quality of life. This research aims to evaluate the usefulness of color Doppler ultrasonography, an imaging technique that shows blood flow and inflammation, in diagnosing and treating calcified tendinitis more effectively. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one where doctors use Doppler ultrasound to detect active inflammation in calcifications before an ultrasound-guided injection, and another where Doppler imaging is applied only in non-calcified areas to keep patients unaware of the inflammation status. Both groups receive ultrasound-guided injections as treatment. This is a single-blind, randomized controlled trial led by Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital with a study period starting in July 2024. During the study, participants will be monitored for the need for a second injection between three days and one week after the first. Researchers will assess pain levels, calcification size, and arm, shoulder, and hand function using questionnaires before treatment, shortly after injection, and within four weeks. These evaluations help determine if using Doppler ultrasound improves treatment outcomes. The study includes adults aged 18 to 80 with chronic shoulder pain and calcifications confirmed by X-ray.

The Effect of Doppler Ultrasound on Calcified Tendinitis