Calcific tendonitis is caused by calcium build up in your rotator cuff tendons (that attach muscles to the bone). These calcium deposits can build up in one area or occur in more than one location. If the deposits grow bigger or become irritated, they can cause severe pain.
Calcific tendonitis is not very common and occurs in less than 10% of people being treated for shoulder pain. We do not fully understand why this condition occurs.
People between the ages of 40 and 60 have a higher risk of calcific tendonitis.
After an assessment from your healthcare professional, imaging tests may be ordered. These may include x-rays or ultrasound scans of the shoulder.
Over the counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen will ease the pain, but need to be taken regularly in order to control the pain. Follow the instructions on the packet and discuss using them safely with a pharmacist or GP, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Using a heat or cool pack on a painful shoulder might help to relieve the pain
Both heat and cool can be helpful but be careful not to put ice or heat packs or hot water bottles directly on your skin – wrap them with a tea towel or cover.
Exercises which keep your shoulder strong and flexible and reduce the irritation
The British Elblow & Shoulder Society website has some exercises that will help with improving your pain and function.
The British Elbow & Shoulder Society shoulder pain exercise videoA referral to physiotherapy may be helpful if the symptoms don’t settle with the advice and exercises available.
Steroid injections into the subacromial space (with or without local anaesthetic) may be offered. It can be difficult to predict how much this might help and any relief this gives is generally short term. Injections may not be suitable for every person.
Your clinician will advise you when to re-start exercises after you receive the steroid injection. A second injection may be required in a small number of cases.