This procedure can only be done as part of a research study. There are no major safety concerns but there is not enough evidence to be sure how well it works.
Your healthcare professional should talk to you about the research.
Calcific tendinopathy in the shoulder happens when calcium deposits build up in the tendons, causing pain and stiffness, although some people do not have any symptoms. In this procedure, a device is placed on the skin (extracorporeal) that delivers short pulses of sound (shockwaves) into the shoulder. The aim is to reduce pain and improve shoulder function.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
Information and support
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains what only in research means.
You can get support from your local Healthwatch.
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