The shoulder is a complex joint that depends on the smooth operation of a number of muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues to attain fluid motion. The rotator cuff, a cluster of four muscles and their respective tendons at the top of the humerus, or upper-arm bone, is one of the areas in the shoulder most susceptible to injury and chronic ailments. Calcific tendonitis refers to a build-up of calcium in the rotator cuff, and is often aggravated by an existing condition, such as Impingement or conventional tendonitis in the shoulder. When calcium builds up in the area, fluidity of the joint is reduced, causing pain to the patient.
The calcium deposit rests between the bone of the upper arm (the humerus) and the rotator cuff, inhibiting the normal, friction-free movement of the joint. Impingement or tendonitis, which reduce the mobility of the joint, allow the calcium deposit to form.
- Localized pain
- Pain never leaves, but can be severe at times
- Tenderness around specific part of shoulder
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes
- Pre-existing condition, such as impingement or tendonitis.
- Overuse
- Muscle weakness
Risk Factors
- Athletes who perform frequent overhead motions, such as water polo and basketball players
- Overuse of the shoulder by repeated throwing or overhead exercise
Treatment
Immediate Action:
- Call your doctor.
- Take aspirin or an anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, if needed.
- Ice the wound for 20 minutes, as heat tends to aggravate calcific tendonitis.
- Avoid motions that cause sharp pain.
- At your doctor’s advice, do low-impact exercises to increase range of motion.
See your doctor...
If: the problem persists or recurs.
To: get physical therapy, specific braces, and consider whether surgery is necessary.Procedures
A doctor may administer cortisone injections for relief of pain and swelling, and may also perform “needling,” breaking up the painful tissue inside the joint under local anesthetic. For some cases, surgery may be necessary. Arthroscopic surgery may be recommended by your physician to assess the extent of the injury and remove calcium deposits. Other procedures to correct pre-existing conditions may be undertaken simultaneously.Medications
Possible medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Prevention
Since overhead sports and job activities contribute to shoulder conditions such as impingement or bursitis, which may aggravate or worsen calcific tendonitis, such activities should be avoided. Gradually working up toward higher degrees of activity or higher weight while weightlifting will give your shoulder time to adapt, and therefore, prevent injury.
Last updated: 10-Oct-00
