Calcific tendinitis is a medical condition that occurs due to the calcium deposits on the tendons in the shoulder bone. This condition commonly occurs in people over the age of 40 with inflammation of tissues around the calcium deposits. The tendon of the rotator cuff that connects the muscles around the shoulder is mostly affected by calcium deposits.
Calcium deposits formed in the tendons of the rotator cuffs are of two types:
- Degenerative calcification- during the aging process, the blood flow to the tendons decreases making them weak. This result in the wear and tear of fibers of the tendons. As a part of the healing process, calcium deposits are formed in the damaged tendons.
- Reactive calcification- the exact cause of reactive calcification is not clear. Stages as three phases: pre calcific stage that changes the tendons to form calcium deposits, calcific stage during which the calcium crystals are deposited in the tendons and later disappear as the body reabsorbs them causing pain. And finally the post calcific phase the tendons heal with new tissue development.
Symptoms of calcific tendinitis
Symptoms include severe pain and stiffness during lifting and movement of the shoulder. Calcium deposits cause inflammation and uneasiness in shoulder movement.
Diagnosis
The doctor conducts a physical examination and X-ray to confirm the presence of calcium deposits. The x-ray test allows the doctor to locate the exact location of calcium deposits and also to track the amount of calcification to determine the method of treatment.
Treatment
The pain medication and immobilization with a sling is the initial treatment. Lavage is a non-surgical procedure used to remove the calcium deposits by inserting two large needles and rinsing with a sterile solution. Even though it is a non specific and crude method ,The lavage process breaks the calcium deposits to loose particles and pain can relieve with that .
Surgical treatment – Arthroscopic Removal
Surgical treatment for calcific tendinitis is done by arthroscopic resection. This is a minimal invasive surgical method that uses an arthroscope to view the amount and location of calcium deposit in the tendons of the rotator cuff the calcium deposit can be removed with a keyhole incision very precisely and completely , any associated problems can also be addressed simultaneously.
What to expect after undergoing treatment for calcific tendinitis
After non-surgical or surgical treatment for calcific tendinitis, doctors recommend following a rehabilitation program. The therapy focuses on reducing the pain and increases the strength and control of the muscle joint. A sling will be provided to support the shoulder muscles after the surgery.
