Calcific Subacromial Bursitis In A 53-Year-Old Manual Worker: Complete Resolution Of Chronic Pain Following Radial Shock Wave Therapy

Abstract

Calcific subacromial bursitis is a frequent cause of shoulder pain, often associated with rotator cuff overload and repetitive overhead work. This report presents a 53-year-old ceiling repair worker who developed severe right shoulder pain due to a large subacromial calcific deposit. Prior treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) provided no relief, and a rheumatologist initially recommended surgical intervention because of the size of the calcification and the patient’s high pain levels. The patient instead pursued a conservative programme consisting of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (R-ESWT) combined with structured physiotherapy. Following this integrated approach, he experienced dramatic clinical improvement, near-complete radiological resorption of the calcification, and a full return to unrestricted occupational activity. This case highlights the substantial therapeutic value of non-invasive treatment in patients with calcific bursitis, even when classical indicators might favour surgical management.