Understanding Rotator Cuff Calcific Tendonitis
In our previous post, we continued our discussion on common upper-body tendinopathies that we see as physiotherapists, focusing on medial and lateral epicondylalgia. Today, we will be moving up the shoulder, directing our focus on Rotator Cuff Calcific Tendonitis. If you’ve been diagnosed with this condition or suspect it may be the cause of your discomfort, this post will guide you through what it is, why it occurs, and what you can do about it.
What Exactly is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis) that surround the shoulder joint. Together, they stabilize the shoulder and allow for a wide range of movements like lifting, reaching, and rotating the arm.
What Is Calcific Tendonitis of the Rotator Cuff?
Calcific tendonitis is a condition where calcium deposits form in the tendons of the rotator cuff, most commonly the supraspinatus tendon. These deposits cause inflammation and pain, often severely limiting shoulder movement. The cause of calcific tendonitis isn’t fully understood, but several contributing factors can be degenerative changes in the tendon with age, poor blood supply to the rotator cuff tendons, and overuse or repetitive stress on the shoulder.
The process of calcific tendonitis typically goes through three stages:
Pre-calcific stage: Cellular changes in the tendon make it prone to calcium buildup.
Calcific stage: Calcium crystals are deposited in the tendon. This phase may be asymptomatic or painful.
Post-calcific stage: The body gradually reabsorbs the calcium, and healing begins.
Common Symptoms of Calcific Tendonitis
- Sharp, intense pain in the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm
- Night pain, which may disrupt sleep
- Limited range of motion
- Sudden onset of severe pain (during the reabsorption phase)
Treatment Options for Calcific Tendonitis
As with many of the tendinopathies we have explored, treatment can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. In the case of calcific tendonitis, there are both conservative and interventional therapies.
Conservative Treatment:
- Rest and activity modification
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (prescribed by a physician)
- Physical therapy to improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, build strength, and prevent recurrence
Interventional Treatments:
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) uses sound waves to break up calcium deposits and stimulate healing by promoting increased blood flow and cellular activity in the area.
Conclusion:
Rotator cuff calcific tendonitis can be painful and disruptive, but it’s a treatable condition with many patients regaining full pain-free function. If you’re experiencing unexplained shoulder pain, especially with night discomfort or limited motion, consult with one of the physiotherapists at Kamloops Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre. We can correctly identify the root cause of your problem and help you begin your journey to recovery.
This blog post was written by physiotherapist Jacob Coelho. To book an appointment with Jacob or one of our other experienced therapists, call 250-314-0788 or book online HERE.