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Calcific Tendonitis
Calcific tendonitis of the shoulder is a condition in which calcium deposits form in the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles, causing pain and limited range of motion in the shoulder.
Anatomy:
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. These muscles and tendons work together to stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for movement.
Pathoanatomy:
The exact cause of calcific tendonitis is not known, but it is thought to be related to changes in the blood supply to the tendons. This can lead to the deposition of calcium crystals in the tendons, which can cause inflammation and pain.
Mechanism of injury:
Calcific tendonitis can occur spontaneously, or may be triggered by an injury or overuse of the shoulder. The condition is more common in people over the age of 40, and in those with certain medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disease.
Symptoms:
The main symptom of calcific tendonitis is pain in the shoulder, which may be severe and may radiate down the arm. The pain may be worse at night or when lying on the affected shoulder. The condition can also cause limited range of motion in the shoulder, making it difficult to perform simple tasks such as reaching overhead or behind the back.
Recovery:
Recovery from biceps tendonitis can take several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment. Non-operative calcific tendonitis shoulder treatment usually involves a period of rest followed by physical therapy to help restore strength and range of motion. Surgical recovery may involve immobilization of the arm for a period of time, followed by physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for rehabilitation and to avoid activities that may cause a re-injury.
Phases of calcific tendonitis:
Calcific tendonitis typically progresses through three phases:
- Pre-calcification: Inflammation and swelling of the tendon, which may cause pain and limited range of motion.
- Calcification:Calcium deposits form in the tendon, causing increased pain and stiffness.
- Post-calcification: The calcium deposits begin to break down, causing inflammation and pain. This phase may last several months to a year.
Treatment options:
Calcific tendonitis treatment typically involves a combination of physical therapy, medication, and, in some cases, surgery.
Non-operative management:
Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for calcific tendonitis. This may include exercises to improve range of motion and flexibility, as well as stretches to help relieve pain and stiffness. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen may also be prescribed to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Operative management:
In cases where non-operative treatment is not effective, surgery may be necessary. This may involve arthroscopic surgery to remove the calcium deposits from the tendon or open surgery to repair the tendon if it has been damaged.
Recovery time:
Recovery time for calcific tendonitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. Mild cases may resolve in a few months with non-operative treatment, while more severe cases may take a year or more to fully resolve. Recovery time after surgery may also vary, but most patients can expect to regain a significant range of motion within a few weeks to a few months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common symptoms of Calcific Tendonitis?
Symptoms of Calcific Tendonitis typically include intense shoulder pain, limited range of motion, stiffness, and difficulty sleeping due to pain. The pain may be sudden or gradually worsening.
How is Calcific Tendonitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Calcific Tendonitis often involves a physical examination, patient history, and imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound, which can detect calcium deposits in the tendons.
What are the treatment options for Calcific Tendonitis?
Treatment options range from conservative approaches like rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications to more invasive procedures like corticosteroid injections, shockwave therapy, or surgical removal of calcium deposits.
Can Calcific Tendonitis be prevented?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Calcific Tendonitis, maintaining good shoulder health through regular exercise, stretching, and avoiding repetitive shoulder strain may reduce the risk.
How long does recovery from Calcific Tendonitis typically take?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. Mild cases may improve within a few weeks, while more severe cases or those requiring surgery could take several months for full recovery.