Calcific Tendinitis of Shoulder: Understanding This Common Condition

Calcific tendinitis of shoulder is a condition we encounter frequently at our clinic. This painful shoulder disorder occurs when calcium deposits form on the tendons of the shoulder, particularly in the rotator cuff. The condition can cause significant discomfort and restricted movement, but with proper understanding and treatment, most patients experience substantial relief.

What Is Calcific Tendinitis of Shoulder?

Calcific tendinitis of shoulder develops when calcium hydroxyapatite crystals deposit in the tendons of the rotator cuff. These deposits typically form in the supraspinatus tendon, which connects the supraspinatus muscle of the upper arm to the shoulder blade. The condition progresses through various phases, from pre-calcification to post-calcification, with symptoms varying depending on the current phase.

The formation of these calcium deposits leads to increased pressure within the tendon and inflammation of surrounding tissues. This results in pain that can range from mild to severe, restricted shoulder movement, and potential impingement of nearby structures.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of calcium deposits in shoulder tendons remains somewhat unclear, several factors appear to contribute to their development:

One of the primary factors we observe is improper shoulder joint alignment. When the shoulder joint is not properly aligned, it creates abnormal stress on the tendons. This misalignment can result from poor posture, muscular imbalances, previous injuries, repetitive overhead movements, or anatomical variations.

The body sometimes responds to these stresses by forming calcium deposits, potentially as a healing response to micro-trauma in the tendon.

Calcific tendinitis of shoulder most commonly affects people over the age of 40. This age association may relate to:

* Natural tendon degeneration with age

* Decreased blood supply to tendons

* Hormonal changes

* Cumulative effects of repetitive movements

Additional risk factors include genetic predisposition, metabolic disorders, and endocrine diseases like diabetes. Occupations requiring repetitive overhead arm movements and sports that involve throwing or overhead activities also increase risk.

Symptoms of Calcific Tendinitis

The symptoms of calcific tendinitis of shoulder can vary significantly depending on the phase of the condition and the size of the calcium deposit. Common symptoms include:

During the Formative or Resting Phase

During this phase, you may experience mild to moderate shoulder discomfort and pain when lying on the affected shoulder. Discomfort with specific movements is common, along with limited range of motion in certain directions and mild weakness in the affected arm.

During the Resorptive (Acute) Phase

The acute phase typically involves sudden, severe shoulder pain that may radiate down the arm. You'll likely notice significant restriction in shoulder movement, along with warmth and tenderness. Many patients report difficulty performing daily activities and interrupted sleep due to pain.

Many patients describe the acute phase as extremely painful, often prompting them to seek immediate care.

Diagnosis of Calcific Tendinitis

Proper diagnosis of calcific tendinitis of shoulder typically involves a thorough clinical examination, detailed medical history, range of motion testing, and strength assessments. Imaging studies are often necessary, including X-rays to visualize calcium deposits, ultrasound for more detailed imaging of soft tissues, and occasionally MRI in more complex cases.

Early and accurate diagnosis allows for more effective treatment planning and better outcomes.

Treatment Approaches for Calcific Tendinitis

Chiropractic adjustments and mobilisation techniques help to:

* Restore proper shoulder joint alignment

* Reduce pressure on affected tendons

* Improve joint mechanics

* Decrease inflammation

* Enhance healing

Calcific Tendinitis of Shoulder Exercises

A structured exercise program is crucial for recovery and prevention of recurrence. Beneficial exercises often include several key categories:

1. Range of Motion Exercises These gentle movements help maintain and increase shoulder mobility. Pendulum swings gently mobilise the shoulder, while wall climbing exercises improve elevation. Many therapists also recommend stick exercises to assist with rotation.

2. Strengthening Exercises As recovery progresses, strengthening becomes important. This typically involves rotator cuff strengthening using resistance bands, scapular stabilisation exercises, and gradually increasing weight-bearing activities as tolerated.

3. Postural Correction Exercises Since posture plays a significant role in shoulder health, exercises focusing on upper back strengthening and chest stretches help reduce forward shoulder posture. Core stability exercises are also valuable for supporting proper alignment throughout the entire kinetic chain.

These exercises should be performed under professional guidance to ensure they're done correctly and don't exacerbate symptoms.

Various manual therapies can help address soft tissue components, including myofascial release techniques, trigger point therapy, cross-friction massage (when appropriate), and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation.

Additional therapies may include cold therapy during acute phases and heat therapy during chronic phases. Some practitioners also use ultrasound to potentially help break down calcium deposits and low-level laser therapy to reduce inflammation.

The Role of Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic treatment offers several advantages for patients with calcific tendinitis of shoulder:

* Comprehensive assessment of both joint and soft tissue components

* Focus on addressing underlying alignment issues

* Non-invasive approach that avoids medications with potential side effects

* Emphasis on active rehabilitation through appropriate exercises

* Education to prevent future episodes

Our chiropractors are experienced in treating shoulder conditions and work to develop customised treatment plans based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Key Takeaways

Calcific tendinitis of shoulder can be painful and limiting, but with proper care, most patients experience significant improvement. Understanding the condition and actively participating in your treatment—particularly through consistent performance of calcific tendinitis of shoulder exercises—plays a crucial role in recovery.

If you're experiencing shoulder pain or have been diagnosed with calcific tendinitis, we invite you to learn more about how our chiropractic care approach can help address your condition and get you back to the activities you enjoy.