Calcific Tendonitis
Calcific tendonitis is a condition in which calcium deposits form in a tendon. Tendons are tissues that connect muscles to bones. Calcific tendonitis most commonly affects the shoulder, but it can also occur in other joints, such as the elbow, wrist, and hip.
The exact cause of calcific tendonitis is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by repetitive use of the tendon. The calcium deposits can cause pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the affected joint.
The symptoms of calcific tendonitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the affected joint
- Stiffness in the joint
- Decreased range of motion in the joint
- Tenderness over the affected tendon
- A lump or bump in the affected joint
The diagnosis of calcific tendonitis is made by a doctor based on your medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests, such as an X-ray or ultrasound.
The treatment for calcific tendonitis depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be treated with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication. More severe cases may require physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgery.
Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and strength in the affected joint. Corticosteroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Surgery is only used in severe cases when other treatments have not been successful.
The prognosis for calcific tendonitis is usually good. Most people make a full recovery with time and treatment.
If you have any pain in your shoulder or other joints, we encourage you to make an appointment to see Dr Sara Safari at Warrandyte Road Clinic to get a diagnosis and treatment.
Dr Sara Safari
Sports and Musculoskeletal Doctor
Dr Sara Safari is an experienced sports and musculoskeletal doctor with extensive experience in helping athletes and active individuals of all ages and levels get back to the activities they love.
She has previously held roles as a sports doctor with the AFL Academy, the Sydney Swans, Melbourne City FC and Eastern Ranges Football Club. In addition to her practice at Warrandyte Road Clinic, she also consults as a sports and musculoskeletal physician at Knox Orthopaedic Group and assists in orthopaedic surgeries on a regular basis at various hospitals around Melbourne. She is experienced at room ultrasound for rapid diagnosis and is an expert in the field of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.
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