Calcific Tendinitis is a condition you may not have heard of before, but it is extremely common. In fact, it is considered to be the leading cause of shoulder pain worldwide. It most commonly affects people aged 30-60, and women are twice more likely than men to be affected.

What is Calcific Tendinitis exactly?

It is characterised by the build-up of calcium deposits in the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles in the shoulder. This can cause severe pain and loss of function for many months or even years.

It is not fully understood how this process occurs, but it is theorised that age-related changes, injury or overuse of the shoulder joints may be a factor.

The good news is that this disease is often self-limiting, and after a few years, the calcium deposits can be spontaneously reabsorbed, and your shoulder may return to normal. In fact, a lot of people may have calcific tendinitis to some degree without having any symptoms.

Symptoms

Night pain, especially when laying on the side of the affected shoulder

Constant dull ache

Reduced range of motion, and very painful in certain ranges of motion

Pain radiating into the arm or into the neck and upper back.

What should you do?

Although this condition can be self-limiting, it can have a severe impact on a person’s quality of life due to pain and immobility. First, you must see a doctor for an X-ray or Ultrasound diagnosis. There are many other causes of shoulder pain, and it is important that a correct diagnosis is made so as to inform the correct treatment.

Conservative medical treatment may include painkillers and lavage and/or barbotage to break up and remove calcium deposits.

Osteopathy

Osteopathic treatment of calcific tendinitis may involve techniques to allow the shoulder to move more freely and improve the range of motion. We would also work on an exercise rehab plan to improve movement strength and reduce pain in the shoulder. ESWT (shockwave therapy) and dry needling may be recommended in some circumstances.