Extra corporeal shock wave therapy

[Scazzoh]

I have had severe tendinitis in both shoulders for over two years. I take the view that it is related to my UAT, but doctors beg to differ. I have read that this shock wave therapy can benefit tendinitis and it is recommended by NICE. Has anyone had this treatment, or does anyone know which (if any) NHS hospitals provide it?

[jogc]

Yes, I have had it for a build up of calcium in the tendon in my shoulder. I was in agony beforehand with very limited movement and was recommended surgery to remove the calcium. I have UAT and I am sure there is a connection with calcium build ups in my shoulder tendons. I had the shockwave as an attempt to avoid surgery and it has cured me. They have not done a follow up X-ray but I think the shockwave must have dispersed the calcium because I am pain free with full movement. There was improvement after 1 session but it took 6 to be cured. I did it privately so I am afraid I cannot recommend an NHS service. Good luck.

[Scazzoh in reply to jogc]

That is really helpful JOGC. I have found a private hospital which will carry out the procedure, so I think I am going to have it done. There is a lot of research on PubMed about the link between Thyroid disease and tendinities, but I think that is too complicated for most doctors to deal with.

[Scazzoh in reply to jogc]

Sorry, I meant to ask, how long ago did you have the treatment done? I am concerned about the calcium deposits reforming, given thyroid disease.

[MidnightBlue]

I don't know about that treatment, but I wanted to say that I developed tendinitis in my shoulder at exactly the same time as hashimotas, and I am certain they are connected. My GP doesn't seem to see the link either. Thankfully it is very mild, and I only notice it when I do certain movements, but it has been years now. I had an ultrasound but calcium build up was not mentioned, I may dig out the report and look through it again.

[Scazzoh in reply to MidnightBlue]

That is really helpful Midnight Blue. I have found a private hospital which will carry out the procedure, so I think I am going to have it done. There is a lot of research on PubMed about the link between Thyroid disease and tendinitis, but I think that is too complicated for most doctors to deal with.

[MidnightBlue in reply to Scazzoh]

I would love to know how you get on with the treatment.

[Scazzoh in reply to MidnightBlue]

I'll let you know.

[Scazzoh in reply to MidnightBlue]

see my post

[MidnightBlue in reply to Scazzoh]

Thanks

[t3rr]

yes, I had the shock wave therapy after a year of tendinitis of my achilles, which had been very painful, endless physio, but 3 sessions of ESWT improved things greatly

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK]

Interesting. I notice that the Wiki article says:

Presently this technology is approved in the US by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of only plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extra...

Having had both plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow, I can't help thinking about it in relation to myself.

The PF resolved (mostly) by using orthotic inserts in my shoes, and getting hypothyroidism treated.

The TE started to resolve when I was given therapeutic ultrasound. I positivley felt something "give way" during the treatment. From then on, I was on the road to recovery. Only get very slight discomfort on odd occasions - and never anything more.

The idea that something,in this case the shock waves, can ease or breakdown some tissue is appealing and fits with my ultrasound experience.

[Scazzoh]

I have now had two treatments on both shoulders and the tendon pain has almost gone. Still got restricted movement in arms, i.e. fastening bras etc, but can mow lawns, carry stuff, play the piano, which was very limited before. I have stopped taking the 45 mcgs of Amitriptiline I have been on for 2.5 years and no longer 'snack' on paracetamole (8 a day). I have one treatment left. The constultant told me that it could take up to 4 months for the full benefits to be felt. The actual procedure is VERY painful but only lasts 10 minutes or so, so is, in my view, worth enduring.

[Scazzoh]

Just thought I 'd give an update on my condition. I am not completely pain free, especially after using my arms, lifting heavy stuff etc. I had a recent follow up with the doctory who confirmed that the tendonitis is still there. However, the calcification appears not to have returned and movement in both arms is much better. I take no pain killers at all now and feel like I can function relatively normally. I have occasional chiropracter sessions.