Shoulder Calcific Tendonitis

Description Of Shoulder Calficic Tendonitis

In this condition, calcific deposits form within the rotator cuff tendons (usually the Supraspinatus tendon near its insertion site on the greater tuberosity) or within the sub-acromial bursa which overlies the tendon. Calcification generally occurs in patients after the age of 30 and may cause considerable rotator cuff swelling and pain. It may also be present without symptoms. It is frequently diagnosed on X-rays done for reasons other than pain.

Treatment Of Shoulder Calficic Tendonitis

In the absence of significant symptoms, no treatment is required or recommended. In patients with mild pain, rest and over the counter Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs or Tylenol may be recommended. A cortisone injection can also be very helpful for persistent mild to moderate symptoms. If the symptoms are significant, causing loss of motion and function or make restful sleep difficult, then surgery may be recommended. During arthroscopy, the calcium deposits can then be removed from the tendon by milking out the toothpaste-like material from the tendon and bursa. A suture repair of any remaining defects within the rotator cuff tendons may be performed in the setting of excision of large calcium deposits. After surgery, prompt rehabilitation is recommended to avoid shoulder stiffness.