How effective is shoulder arthroscopy for calcific tendinitis?

During arthroscopy, the surgeon uses small instruments to inspect the joint and may remove calcium deposits from an irritated tendon. The procedure may also address nearby tissue that is inflamed or restricting movement. Relief is not judged only by the operation itself: pain can remain while the tendon settles, and strength often returns gradually with guided exercises. The amount and position of calcium, the condition of the tendon, and how long symptoms have been present all influence the result.

Follow the sling and movement instructions given by your surgical team. Begin physiotherapy when advised, progressing from comfortable range-of-motion work to strengthening. Avoid lifting, pushing, or overhead activity until your clinician confirms that the tendon can tolerate it. Keep the wounds clean and attend follow-up appointments so movement, pain, and tendon healing can be reviewed. Tell the team if pain is not gradually settling or exercises repeatedly cause a sharp increase in symptoms.

Contact your surgical team promptly for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, wound drainage, fever, or pain that suddenly becomes much worse. Seek urgent medical help for new numbness or weakness in the arm, a hand that becomes cold or changes colour, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.

Ask whether the deposit can be treated without surgery, what part of the tendon may need repair, when physiotherapy should begin, and which movements should be avoided. You can also ask how your work, sport, sleep, and current shoulder strength may affect the rehabilitation plan.