Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder is a condition characterized by the accumulation of calcium deposits within the tendons of the rotator cuff, usually affecting the supraspinatus tendon. These calcifications can lead to severe pain, limited movement and significant discomfort, affecting the patient's daily activities and overall quality of life.
More specifically, calcific tendinitis occurs when calcium phosphate accumulates in the rotator cuff tendons. This build-up can cause a chemical reaction with other tissues, leading to pain and inflammation. The condition is more common in adults between 30 and 60 years of age and more common in women than men.
Causes of calcific tendinitis
The exact cause of calcific tendinitis remains unclear, but it is thought that some of the factors responsible for its occurrence include:
- Cellular changes within the tendons, leading to abnormal calcium deposits.
- Genetic factors that increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
- Metabolic disorders that affect the balance of calcium and phosphate.
- Restricted blood flow or reduced oxygen supply to the tendon can cause calcification as an improper healing response.
Symptoms of calcific tendinitis
Symptoms of calcific tendonitis can vary but usually include:
- Intense pain, which can worsen with shoulder movement or even during rest, especially at night.
- Limited mobility and stiffness, making daily activities very difficult.
- Tenderness to touch the shoulder, especially over the affected area.
- Occasional swelling around the shoulder.
Proper diagnosis is very important in determining the most effective treatment. The diagnostic process includes clinical examination to assess pain, tenderness and range of motion, radiography to visualize calcium deposits, ultrasound to assess the condition of the rotator cuff tendons and the exact location and size of calcifications, and MRI, more to rule out other conditions as it provides detailed images of the soft tissues.
How is calcific tendinitis of the shoulder treated?
Treatment for calcific tendonitis aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and remove or dissolve calcium deposits. Treatment can be either conservative or surgical in more severe cases.
Conservative treatments:
- Medication to reduce inflammation and manage pain.
- Physiotherapy, with exercises to improve the strength and flexibility of the shoulder, which can help relieve symptoms and prevent further injury.
- Corticosteroid injections to control severe inflammation (if indicated).
- Shock wave therapy to break up calcium deposits.
- Ultrasound-guided needle cleaning/removing of calicifications (barbotage). This is a minimally invasive procedure in which needles are used to break up and aspirate calcium deposits under ultrasound guidance.
Surgical options
Surgery is considered as an option when conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms:
- Arthroscopya minimally invasive surgical procedure in which small incisions are made and a camera and instruments are inserted to remove calcium deposits.
- Seldom open surgery, in severe cases, to remove the calcifications and repair the damaged tendon.
Prevention tips for arthritis
While complete prevention of calcific tendinitis may not be possible, certain measures can minimize the risk:
- Regular exerciseto keep both the shoulder joint and surrounding muscles strong and flexible.
- Modify activities that put excessive pressure on the shoulders, especially activities that involve arm movements over the head.
- Proper nutrition that supports bone and joint health.
- Use of ergonomic tools and techniques to reduce shoulder strain during daily activities.
Calcific shoulder tendinitis is a painful condition that can significantly affect a person's functionality and quality of life. To learn more about calcific tendinitis of the shoulder and the treatment options available, contact us at 6943903343 (secretary), 6949196061 (doctor) or orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
