Acupuncture help to resolve the calcific deposits of a patient suffering from shoulder calcific tendinitis: A case report.

BACKGROUND

Calcific tendinitis (CT) of the shoulder refers to the formation of calcium hydroxyapatite deposits in the rotator cuff and supraspinatus was mostly affected. CT can cause considerable pain and restriction. If left untreated, complications such as rotator cuff tears may occur. Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine therapy, is now widely regarded as an effective approach to treat musculoskeletal problems, including shoulder pain, and is worth investigating for treating CT.

CASE: A 67-year-old woman was diagnosed with shoulder CT via Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) experienced substantial shoulder pain, restriction and difficulty performing daily tasks for 6 months. She underwent 12 sessions (twice a week) of localized acupuncture application based on her disease-affected meridian, averaging 12 needles per session. The pain scale and shoulder range of motion were continually monitored. After that, an MRI follow-up was performed.

RESULTS

After the sessions ended. Her latest MRI showed the calcific deposits were resolved and her pain was significantly reduced and she could move her shoulder functionally and restriction in her daily activities was significantly reduced. We kept monitoring her condition for a further month, she only reported mild shoulder joint stiff left. She was advised to be discharged from treatment. Home exercise to further self-mobilize her shoulder joint was educated and encouraged.

CONCLUSION

Localized acupuncture application based on disease-affected meridian effectively resolve the calcified deposit and improved patient's shoulder pain and range of motion. However, a larger study with a control group was suggested to substantiate the impact.