How is calcific tendinitis treated?

Calcific tendinitis involves calcium deposits within a shoulder tendon, often causing pain and restricted movement when the tendon is irritated. Symptoms can change over time, so an examination and imaging help show the deposit's location and whether another shoulder problem is contributing. Treatment is matched to pain, movement loss and how long daily activities have been affected.

Short-term activity changes can avoid repeated overhead loading without making the shoulder completely still. A clinician may suggest pain relief, followed by physiotherapy to restore range of motion and gradually build shoulder control. A cortisone injection may reduce inflammation around the tendon in selected cases. Shockwave therapy may be discussed to help break down or disperse a deposit. If symptoms remain disabling after non-surgical care, shoulder arthroscopy can remove the deposit or address related tissue problems. The choice depends on examination and imaging.

Arrange review when shoulder pain persists, sleep is repeatedly disturbed, or lifting the arm becomes difficult. Seek urgent assessment after an injury if the arm suddenly cannot move, the shoulder looks deformed, or severe pain is accompanied by fever, marked redness or swelling. New weakness or continuing loss of movement also deserves clinical examination.

Ask where the deposit is, whether imaging shows another tendon or joint problem, and what improvement to expect from physiotherapy. Discuss the purpose and limits of an injection or shockwave treatment, and when arthroscopy would become reasonable.