Calcific Tendonitis

Calcific tendonitis occurs when calcium deposits form within the rotator cuff tendons, often producing severe shoulder pain and inflammation.

Symptoms

• Sudden severe pain
• Night pain
• Difficulty lifting the arm
• Inflammation
• Stiffness

Symptoms may become extremely intense during the resorptive phase when the body attempts to break down the calcium deposit.

Treatment options

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Corticosteroid injection
• Physical therapy
• Ultrasound-guided barbotage in selected cases
• Arthroscopic removal of calcium deposits

What this means for patients

Calcific tendonitis can be extremely painful, but most patients improve substantially with appropriate treatment focused on controlling inflammation and restoring motion.