Diagnosing Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: What Tests Are Involved?
Diagnosing Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: What Tests Are Involved?
What's This About?
Understanding the diagnostic process for rotator cuff tendinopathy can help you get the right treatment faster.
Contents
- Physical Examination
- Imaging Tests
- Lidocaine Injection Test
Physical Examination
A thorough physical examination is the first step in diagnosing rotator cuff tendinopathy. Doctors look for signs like muscle atrophy, range of motion limitations, and perform specific tests like the Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy tests to identify shoulder impingement.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as musculoskeletal ultrasound and MRI, are often used to assess the severity of tendon damage. Ultrasound is particularly useful for real-time evaluation and is considered the gold standard for diagnosing tendon issues.
Lidocaine Injection Test
For distinguishing between tendinopathy and tendon tears, a lidocaine injection test can be employed. This involves injecting anesthetic into the shoulder, and observing if pain relief also results in improved muscle strength, indicating tendinopathy rather than a tear.
FAQs
What is the first step in diagnosis?
A physical examination is the first diagnostic step.
What imaging tests are used?
Ultrasound and MRI are commonly used imaging tests.
What is the lidocaine test for?
It differentiates between tendinopathy and tears by assessing pain relief and strength.
Why is ultrasound preferred?
It's real-time, non-invasive, and considered the gold standard for tendon issues.
Final Thoughts
Accurate diagnosis through these tests is crucial for effective treatment of rotator cuff tendinopathy.
Additional References
- Hegedus EJ, Goode AP. Physical examination tests for the shoulder. Br J Sports Med 2012; 46:964.
- Teefey SA, Rubin DA. Ultrasonography of the rotator cuff. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2004; 86-A:708.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.