Calcium deposits and tendinitis (calcific tendinitis)
Content provided by Healthwise
Calcium deposits and tendinitis (calcific tendinitis)
Calcium may build up in the tendons of the shoulder at sites of inflammation and where blood supply is decreased. Tissue tears and natural tissue breakdown (degenerative changes) increase the chance of these deposits. Women are more likely to have calcific tendinitis than men.
Symptoms may include:
- Shoulder pain and stiffness that often recurs but usually lasts only 1 to 2 weeks.
- Occasional locking of the shoulder.
- Pain that is often worse at night and may interfere with sleep.
Treatment includes rest, ice, medications to reduce pain and swelling, gentle range-of-motion exercises, and occasionally cortisone injections.
If the calcium deposits are large, affect movement, or are persistently painful, they can be treated surgically (debridement).
Credits
| Author | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Last Updated | September 24, 2007 |
| Last updated: | September 24, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Reviewed By: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
