Calcific Tendonitis
What Is Calcific Tendonitis?
Calcific tendonitis is a painful shoulder condition caused by the accumulation of calcium deposits within the tendons of the rotator cuff, most commonly the supraspinatus tendon. These calcium deposits can lead to inflammation, tendon irritation, and impingement of the rotator cuff under the acromion (shoulder blade).
Unlike other degenerative tendon conditions, calcific tendonitis often presents with sudden, intense pain and can affect patients without a history of injury. It most commonly occurs in adults between the ages of 30 and 60.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of calcific tendonitis is not fully understood, but contributing factors may include:
Tendon wear and degeneration
Poor blood supply to the tendon region
Metabolic or hormonal influences
Overuse from repetitive shoulder motions
More common in women than men
The condition progresses through three stages:
Pre-calcific stage – Cellular changes begin in the tendon without symptoms
Calcific stage – Calcium deposits form and may trigger inflammation and pain
Post-calcific stage – Deposits begin to resorb and symptoms improve
Symptoms
Sudden or severe shoulder pain, often without trauma
Pain that radiates down the upper arm
Increased pain at night or while lying on the affected shoulder
Limited range of motion due to discomfort
Shoulder stiffness
Occasionally, a catching or pinching sensation during motion
Diagnosis
X-rays are the primary imaging tool to confirm calcium deposits in the rotator cuff tendons
Ultrasound may be used to measure the size and exact location of the deposit
MRI can assess any associated tendon tears or bursitis
Physical examination to evaluate mobility and impingement signs
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
NSAIDs for pain and inflammation
Activity modification and avoiding aggravating movements
Physical therapy to improve range of motion and shoulder mechanics
Corticosteroid injections to reduce acute inflammation
Ultrasound-guided needling and lavage (barbotage) to aspirate calcium deposits
Surgical Treatment
Considered if conservative treatments fail or deposits are large and causing mechanical symptoms
Arthroscopic removal of calcium deposits
May be combined with rotator cuff repair if tendon damage is present
Subacromial decompression may be performed if impingement is present
Recovery Outlook
Many patients improve with conservative treatment in 6 to 12 weeks
Ultrasound-guided lavage and injections often provide rapid relief
Post-surgical recovery may take 3 to 6 months, depending on the extent of tendon involvement
Why Kerlan Jobe Institute?
At Kerlan Jobe Institute, our specialists have vast experience managing shoulder disorders such as calcific tendonitis. Whether through precision-guided non-surgical techniques or minimally invasive arthroscopy, we aim to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence of this disruptive condition.