What are the symptoms of calcific tendinitis?

Calcific tendinitis commonly causes shoulder pain, stiffness, tenderness, and pain when lifting the arm. Symptoms may start gradually or become intense over a short period, and discomfort can interfere with dressing, reaching overhead, or sleeping on the affected side.

Pain is often felt around the outer shoulder and may spread down the upper arm. Movement can become restricted because raising or rotating the arm hurts. Some people notice aching at rest, night pain, or a sharp catch during a particular movement. The presence of these symptoms does not by itself confirm calcific tendinitis; other shoulder conditions can feel similar. A clinician may examine movement and strength and decide whether imaging is useful.

Arrange an assessment if shoulder pain persists, limits normal activity, or keeps returning. Until then, avoid movements that sharply increase pain while continuing gentle, comfortable motion so the shoulder does not become unnecessarily stiff. Treatment can be tailored to the examination and may include Physiotherapy, a Cortisone Injection, Shockwave Therapy, or, when symptoms remain difficult to manage, Shoulder Arthroscopy.

Seek urgent medical advice for severe sudden shoulder pain after an injury, a visibly deformed shoulder, inability to move the arm, a hot swollen joint, fever, chest discomfort, or new weakness or numbness. Otherwise, book a routine review when pain disrupts sleep or daily tasks, or when movement is becoming more limited.

Ask what findings support Calcific Tendinitis, whether imaging is appropriate, which movements to modify, and how treatment choices fit the severity and duration of your symptoms.