What is calcific tendinitis of the shoulder?

THE calcifying tendinitis of the shoulder, also known as “periarthritis” is the result of the deposition of calcium crystals within the tendons that move this joint. It is a common condition of the shoulders that is exacerbated during periods when patients strain their arms, e.g. with seasonal preparations of the house, with moving, with intense building and gardening work but also sports activities with repetitive movements of the hands above the shoulders.

How is calcification in the shoulder caused?

It is not completely clear what exactly triggers the onset of calcification, however, it is estimated that repeated injuries or degeneration of the myotendinous heel may lead to this condition. The deposition of calcium salts is definitely not due to dietary factors. However, this painful condition is more common in patients who suffer from Diabetes Mellitus or have thyroid disease.

How is shoulder calcification diagnosed?

THE diagnosisis clinically done and confirmed with radiological controlwhile important information is offered by both the ultrasound and
and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect accompanying shoulder injuries such as degeneration and tendon tears.

What should the patient with shoulder calcification expect?

In calcific tendinitis the inflammation worsens and there is sharp pain especially when moving the hand but also during rest in more advanced stages.

This crisis usually lasts a few days and often subsides with conservative treatment. Sometimes, however, it can become chronic, with diffuse pain that limits movement, or it can present a course with flare-ups and remissions. The patient often complains of severe night pain.

How is calcific tendonitis of the shoulder treated?

In the first phase, rest, cryotherapy and medication with anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy are recommended. In cases where the patient presents severe symptoms, the orthopedist will suggest an intra-articular injection of cortisone. It is an easy operation that is carried out in the doctor’s office, it can be repeated once or twice in a week and usually the patient is significantly relieved. Indeed, if the calcification is recent, the orthopedic surgeon with a needle can aspirate part or all of the calcification and immediately relieve the patient.

If this fails, surgical removal of the calcium deposited within the tendon is performed.
The operation is performed arthroscopically, as it is possible to confirm the diagnosis and to accurately remove as much of the calcium as possible with the least possible damage to the tendon itself, which is then repaired by suturing it.

The arthroscopic removal of calcium in cases of calcific tendinitis is a minimally invasive operation, with low morbidity, particularly high success rates and allows the patient to leave the clinic on the same day, while usually having a rapid postoperative recovery.