Calcific Tendinitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

by Son PMR(Physical medicine &Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

"Some patients occasionally visit us, mentioning sudden shoulder pain that kept them awake all night. Upon performing an X-ray and clinical examination, we often diagnose calcific tendinitis. The good news is that most cases improve with appropriate treatment."

1. What is Calcific Tendinitis?

Calcific tendinitis is a condition where calcium deposits accumulate in the tendons of the shoulder, causing inflammation and severe pain. It primarily affects the rotator cuff around the shoulder joint and is more common in women aged 30 to 50. The condition is characterized by sudden, intense pain and difficulty lifting the arm.

2. Causes of Calcific Tendinitis

The exact cause of calcific tendinitis is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development:

  • Degenerative Changes: As we age, the elasticity of tendons decreases, and degenerative changes can lead to calcium deposits.
  • Decreased Blood Flow: When blood circulation in the shoulder tendons is not optimal, tendon cells may deteriorate, leading to calcification.
  • Overuse and Injury: Excessive use of the shoulder or repetitive stress can cause inflammation and calcium buildup.

3. Key Symptoms

  • Sudden onset of severe shoulder pain
  • Increased pain when lifting the arm or moving it in certain directions
  • Nighttime pain that disrupts sleep
  • Limited range of motion, making daily activities difficult

4. Diagnosis

Calcific tendinitis is typically diagnosed through X-ray or ultrasound imaging, which reveals white calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons. In some cases, an MRI may be recommended to assess the condition of the tendons more accurately.

5. Treatment Options

Treatment for calcific tendinitis depends on the severity of pain and the size of the calcium deposits.

Non-Surgical Treatments:

  • Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Injection Therapy: Anti-inflammatory injections into the shoulder joint can provide relief.
  • Nerve Block and Intra-neural Injections: These therapies can effectively reduce pain and improve shoulder function.
  • IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) Therapy: This technique can relieve pain by targeting tight muscle areas and promoting healing.

6. At-Home Management Tips

  • Rest and Avoid Overuse: Give the shoulder adequate rest to avoid further irritation.
  • Cold Therapy: Apply ice packs to reduce pain and inflammation, especially during acute pain episodes.

7. Prevention Strategies

  • Avoid sudden, excessive use of the shoulder.
  • Engage in regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the shoulder muscles and tendons.
  • Maintain good posture and make lifestyle adjustments to prevent overuse injuries.

Conclusion

Calcific tendinitis is a condition that can significantly impact daily life, but with proper treatment and management, most patients experience significant improvement. If you have persistent shoulder pain or difficulty moving your arm, it is important to seek a professional diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

This article is intended for informational purposes only. For personalized medical advice, please consult with a healthcare professional.


👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

chson@daum.net

Feel free to reach out for further consultation or to schedule an appointment.


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