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What Is Calcific Tendinitis?

Calcific Tendinitis is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by the build-up of calcium deposits within a tendon, typically in the rotator cuff of the shoulder. This condition is not related to calcium in the diet or supplements. The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be a degenerative process where the body attempts to repair a damaged tendon but forms calcium instead of healthy tissue. The deposits cause significant pain, especially when the calcium is being reabsorbed by the body.

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What Is Calcific Tendinitis?

Calcific Tendinitis is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by the build-up of calcium deposits within a tendon, typically in the rotator cuff of the shoulder. This condition is not related to calcium in the diet or supplements. The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be a degenerative process where the body attempts to repair a damaged tendon but forms calcium instead of healthy tissue. The deposits cause significant pain, especially when the calcium is being reabsorbed by the body.

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The Stages of Calcific Tendinitis

The condition moves through three main phases:

  1. Precalcific Stage: A painless phase where changes are starting in the tendon tissue.
  2. Calcific Stage: This is when calcium crystals actually form. This phase includes a painless formative period and a highly painful resorptive period, where the body breaks down and absorbs the calcium deposits.
  3. Postcalcific Stage: The repair phase, where the body replaces the calcium with healthy tendon tissue, and pain subsides. The resoprtive phase is often the most painful and can cause severe, sudden discomfort.

Symptoms and Range of Motion

The most noticeable symptom is often intense, chronic pain in the shoulder. This pain is usually aggravated by movement and can be severe enough to disrupt sleep. Because of the pain and inflammation, the patient often experiences a restricted range of motion, making it difficult to lift the arm, reach overhead, or perform simple tasks like putting on a coat.

Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatment

Treatment starts with pain management, often using anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and physical therapy. Non-surgical options include:

  • Needle Aspiration: A doctor uses a needle to locate and wash out the calcium deposits.
  • Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): Sound waves are directed at the shoulder to break up the calcium. If non-surgical treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to remove the deposits and repair the tendon.

Lens.com: Supporting Active Lifestyles

At Lens.com, we support active, healthy lifestyles. We know that conditions like Calcific Tendinitis can interrupt your routine. We emphasize the importance of seeking proper medical care for chronic pain so you can get back to being active and comfortable as quickly as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Calcific Tendinitis

Does Calcific Tendinitis always require surgery?

No. The majority of cases resolve on their own, often within three to six months, as the body eventually reabsorbs the calcium deposits. Surgery is only considered for severe, chronic pain that does not respond to non-surgical treatment.

Is Calcific Tendinitis related to arthritis?

Not directly. While both cause joint pain, Calcific Tendinitis is a disorder of the tendon tissue, whereas arthritis is a disorder of the joint cartilage and lining. However, both can contribute to overall shoulder dysfunction.

Who is most likely to get Calcific Tendinitis?

It is most common in people between the ages of 30 and 60. It affects women more often than men and is often seen in individuals who perform repetitive overhead motions, although it can occur in anyone.