Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder is a particularly painful condition resulting from the deposition of calcium salts in the tendon mass of the rotator cuff. The supraspinatus tendon is most often affected in patients aged 30 to 50 years. Although various theories have been developed, the exact pathogenetic mechanism remains unknown. The presence of calcium salts in the tendon mass leads to worsening inflammation of the tendon with frequent significant exacerbations of pain.

The clinical picture varies from mild discomfort during movement and mild limitation of range of motion to complete loss of movement and excruciating pain. The imaging diagnosis of calcifying tendinitis of the shoulder is confirmed by a simple x-ray, while the ultrasound of the shoulder will give us more details about the extent and location of the calcification as well as the condition of the tendon and the rest of the soft tissues of the affected shoulder. MRI evaluation of the affected shoulder is rarely necessary.

Initially, rest of the affected upper extremity, pharmaceutical pain-relieving treatment and physiotherapy are recommended. Particularly painful cases may be treated with an injection of corticosteroids and PRP. If symptomatic treatment fails or if we have frequent recurrences of painful myalgia, surgical removal of the calcification is recommended.