Roentgen therapy of peritendinitis calcarea of the shoulder; a study of 220 cases with late results.

Abstract

The pathology, roentgen appearance, and clinical aspects of peritendinitis calcarea are familiar to all, having been described in the literature at frequent intervals. Almost as well known are the various procedures for its treatment, though opinion is far from uniform as to the preferred method in a selected case. The fact that the acute process is self-limiting and will subside spontaneously is hardly of comfort to the sufferer. In recent years irradiation has become a more popular form of therapy in this condition, especially in its acute form. This procedure holds a great appeal for patient and doctor alike: it is painless, involving no dreaded needles, excessive handling, or motion of the painful limb; it satisfies the patient's desire for active intervention; it is followed by relief, often dramatic in its promptness. In considering any form of treatment of this condition, immediate relief is the prime consideration, but the ultimate course is only slightly secondary. If the effect of other methods ...