Dynamic Ultrasound Evaluation Supraspinatus Tendon Injuries Using a Pilates Elastic Band

Abstract Supraspinatus tendon tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction. Although magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography arthrography are still considered the gold standard, ultrasound offers a reliable, accessible, and radiation‐free alternative. However, identifying tears can be challenging, particularly for less experienced operators. This technical note describes a simple dynamic ultrasound maneuver employing a Pilates elastic band. With the patient in a modified Crass position, the band is secured around the pelvis to provide controlled resistance during active lateral elevation of the shoulder. This loading mobilizes joint fluid and applies physiological stress to the tendon, thereby enhancing visualization of tears through gapping or altered gliding. This simple, well‐tolerated technique could improve diagnostic accuracy, as well as guiding rehabilitation and surgical decisions.

Authors

Institutions

Publication Details

Journal
Arthroscopy Techniques
Published
2026-05-22
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1002/atn2.70066
Primary Topic
Shoulder Injury and Treatment
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
Controls
|||
ALL TIME
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
article

Dynamic Ultrasound Evaluation Supraspinatus Tendon Injuries Using a Pilates Elastic Band

Romain Nicolle, N. Sans, Marie Faruch‐Bilfeld, Charlotte Vifquain et al.
Arthroscopy Techniques
Shoulder Injury and Treatment
article

Dynamic Ultrasound Evaluation Supraspinatus Tendon Injuries Using a Pilates Elastic Band

Romain Nicolle, N. Sans, Marie Faruch‐Bilfeld, Charlotte Vifquain, Viet‐Tam Van, Nicolas Bonnevialle
article en

Abstract

Abstract Supraspinatus tendon tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction. Although magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography arthrography are still considered the gold standard, ultrasound offers a reliable, accessible, and radiation‐free alternative. However, identifying tears can be challenging, particularly for less experienced operators. This technical note describes a simple dynamic ultrasound maneuver employing a Pilates elastic band. With the patient in a modified Crass position, the band is secured around the pelvis to provide controlled resistance during active lateral elevation of the shoulder. This loading mobilizes joint fluid and applies physiological stress to the tendon, thereby enhancing visualization of tears through gapping or altered gliding. This simple, well‐tolerated technique could improve diagnostic accuracy, as well as guiding rehabilitation and surgical decisions.

Arthroscopy Techniques
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse (FR), Imagerie Médicale et Radiothérapie Drôme Ardèche (FR)
Good health and well-being
Openalex Percentile: Top 4%
Shoulder Injury and Treatment
AI Navigator

Ask Laika to Summarize, Analyze, and Connect papers live on the map.

Summarize Papers & Methodologies

Extract key findings, datasets, and comparative methods across publications.

Benchmark Rankings & Visual Analytics

Rank top research institutions, authors, funders, topics, and journals by Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) and paper volume with instant charts.

Connect Distant Disciplines

Bridge topological clusters on the map to find hidden collaborative intersections.