Calcific Tendinopathy Treatment in Mona Vale
Calcific tendinopathy occurs when calcium deposits develop within one of the rotator cuff tendons, most commonly the supraspinatus tendon. It can cause anything from mild discomfort to significant shoulder pain and restricted movement.
At Helix Recovery, treatment focuses on reducing pain, restoring shoulder function and progressively rebuilding the strength and capacity of the shoulder.
What is Calcific Tendinopathy?
Calcific tendinopathy involves the formation of calcium deposits within a rotator cuff tendon. These deposits can exist without causing symptoms, but in some people they become associated with pain and irritation around the shoulder.
Symptoms can develop gradually or become suddenly and intensely painful, particularly during a phase where the body begins breaking down and reabsorbing the calcium deposit.
The surrounding rotator cuff tendons and subacromial bursa may also become irritated.
Common Symptoms
Pain around the front or outside of the shoulder
Pain when lifting the arm overhead
Painful or restricted shoulder movement
Pain when lying on the affected shoulder
Difficulty reaching behind your back
Pain with gym, work or sporting activities
Episodes of severe shoulder pain in some cases
How We Assess Calcific Tendinopathy
Your assessment may include shoulder movement, rotator cuff strength and functional testing, as well as examination of the neck, shoulder blade and surrounding structures where relevant.
Calcific deposits are usually identified using X-ray or ultrasound. Imaging findings are considered alongside your symptoms and physical examination, as calcium deposits can sometimes be present without causing pain.
How We Treat Calcific Tendinopathy
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Shockwave therapy
Progressive exercise rehabilitation
Rotator cuff strengthening
Shoulder blade and upper-back strengthening
Activity and load modification
Gradual return to work, gym and sport
Shockwave Therapy for Calcific Tendinopathy
Shockwave therapy is commonly used in the management of calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy and has evidence supporting improvements in pain and shoulder function.
Mechanical pressure waves are applied to the affected area and may help stimulate biological processes associated with the breakdown and resorption of calcium deposits, while also helping reduce pain.
Shockwave therapy is combined with osteopathic manual therapy and progressive exercise rehabilitation to restore shoulder movement, strength and function.
Common Questions
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Calcium deposits can reduce in size or be naturally reabsorbed over time. Changes in the deposit don't always correspond directly with symptoms, so treatment is guided by both your pain and shoulder function.
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No. Calcific tendinopathy involves calcium deposits within a rotator cuff tendon. A rotator cuff tear involves disruption of the tendon fibres. They are different conditions, although both can cause similar shoulder symptoms.
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Shockwave doesn't simply physically smash the calcium apart. It is thought to stimulate biological responses that may encourage resorption of the deposit while also helping reduce pain and improve function.
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Most cases are initially managed without surgery. If significant symptoms continue despite appropriate conservative management, further medical assessment and options such as ultrasound-guided procedures may be considered.
Ready to Get Your Shoulder Moving Again?
Whether shoulder pain is affecting work, the gym, surfing or everyday activities, we'll identify the factors contributing to your symptoms and develop a treatment plan tailored to your goals.