Ultrasound-Guided Shockwave Therapy for Cervical Spondylosis and Nuchal Ligament Calcification
Authors: Tz-Yan Lin, Jing-Ting Chen, Yu-Yu Chen, Tien-Wen Chen, Chia-Ling Lee, Chia-Hsin Chen, Mao-Hsiung Huang
This study investigated the effectiveness of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) on patients with cervical spondylosis and calcification of nuchal ligament (NL). Patients were divided into three groups: Group A received rehabilitation with hot packs and cervical traction; Group B received the same rehabilitation as Group A and ESWT guided by X-ray image; and Group C received the same treatment as Group B, but ESWT was guided by ultrasound. The therapeutic effects were evaluated by measuring changes in the range of motion (ROM) of the cervical spine, pain levels, and Neck Disability Index before and after treatment and at a three-month follow-up. All groups showed a significant reduction in pain after treatment and at follow-up. However, patients in Groups B and C showed greater improvements in ROM and neck pain relief after treatment, with a decrease in Neck Disability Index. Furthermore, patients in Group C showed better cervical ROM at follow-up than Group B. The study suggests that ESWT is an effective treatment for cervical spondylosis with calcification of NL, with ultrasound-guided ESWT resulting in more functional improvements. This non-invasive treatment can help patients recover from this common condition that causes stiffness and pain in the neck and can affect daily activities. By using shockwaves, ESWT stimulates the body’s natural healing process and can lead to a reduction in pain, improvement in range of motion, and increase in overall function. With further research, ESWT could become a widely used treatment option for cervical spondylosis with NL calcification.