Shoulder Calcification: Symptoms & Treatment
Shoulder calcification is known to cause calcific tendinitis, a particularly painful condition that develops due to the deposition of calcium salts in the shoulder tendons. The treatment of calcific tendinitis depends on the severity of the symptoms and the extent to which the tendon is affected. In every case, the treatment approach is determined by the patient’s level of functionality and the extent to which the symptoms affect their daily life.
- What Is Shoulder Calcification?Shoulder calcification is an inflammatory condition caused by the accumulation of calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons, most commonly in the supraspinatus tendon. Calcifications develop in phases and may either be absorbed naturally by the body or removed by an Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in the treatment of shoulder conditions.
At an early stage, shoulder calcification has a soft and pliable consistency. For this reason, it may remain asymptomatic for a long period of time. However, as it progresses and the calcium deposit persists, it becomes more solid.
What Causes It?
The causes of shoulder calcification are not known. However, calcifications occur mainly in women aged 30-60, and are more common in individuals who:
- suffer from diabetes or hypothyroidism
- have recurrent micro-injuries to the shoulder
- have poor blood supply to the area
What Symptoms Does Shoulder Calcification Cause?
When the amount of calcification increases, joint movement becomes restricted. During the acute phase of the condition, symptoms may include:
- severe pain on the front or outer surface of the shoulder
- night-time pain
- weakness in the upper limb
- stiffness
Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder: Treatment
The initial approach to the treatment of calcific tendinitis is conservative:
· Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder – Medication:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Analgesics
· Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder – Physiotherapy:
Movement therapy and targeted exercises play a key role in rehabilitation. The aim is to maintain range of motion and strengthen the shoulder muscles.
· Shoulder Calcification – Exercises:
- Shoulder extension and abduction exercises
- Resistance band exercises
- Movement therapy and warm or cold compresses
When Is Surgical Treatment Required?
Surgical treatment is performed with shoulder arthroscopy, during which the deposits are removed. More specifically, it is used in cases where:
- conservative treatment does not produce results
- recurrent acute episodes of pain occur
- persistent stiffness is present
- other conditions coexist, such as a tendon tear
Frequently asked questions
Does calcific tendinitis of the shoulder go away on its own?
Calcium deposits develop in phases and can be reabsorbed by the body on their own, while some people with deposits have no symptoms at all. In acute calcific tendinitis, non-surgical treatment usually works well and surgery is rarely needed, whereas the chronic form often responds less well.
Which exercises help with calcific tendinitis of the shoulder?
Physiotherapy aims to maintain range of motion and strengthen the shoulder muscles, with extension and abduction exercises, resistance band exercises and mobilisation. The programme is adapted to the stage of the condition and to the pain, so it is best set after a medical assessment.
When is surgery needed for calcific tendinitis?
Surgery is considered when non-surgical treatment does not work, when acute episodes of pain keep recurring, when there is persistent stiffness or when a tendon tear is also present. The operation is performed arthroscopically to remove the calcium deposits, and improvement takes time even after surgery.
If you suffer from severe shoulder pain or have been diagnosed with calcific tendinitis, consult the specialised Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Leonidou for a comprehensive assessment and appropriate treatment.
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