Calcific Tendonitis of the Shoulder at DRHC Dubai Shoulder Clinic
At DRHC Dubai, we provide advanced care for calcific tendonitis of the shoulder, a painful condition caused by the buildup of calcium deposits in the tendons of the rotator cuff. This disorder can restrict movement, cause intense pain, and interfere with daily activities. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent chronic discomfort and restore full shoulder function.
What is Calcific Tendonitis of the Shoulder?
Calcific tendonitis occurs when calcium deposits form within the tendons of the rotator cuff, the group of muscles and tendons responsible for stabilizing the shoulder joint. The most commonly affected tendon is the supraspinatus tendon, located at the top of the shoulder.
The calcium buildup can cause inflammation, pain, and limited range of motion, especially when lifting the arm overhead. While the exact cause is not always clear, it may result from poor blood supply, repetitive strain, or aging.
Symptoms of Calcific Tendonitis
- Severe shoulder pain, especially at night
- Stiffness and limited range of motion in the shoulder
- Pain that worsens with lifting or reaching overhead
- Swelling and tenderness around the shoulder
- Clicking or grinding sensations during movement
- Sudden flare-ups of intense pain due to inflammation or rupture of deposits
Causes and Risk Factors
- Age: Most common in adults between 30-60 years
- Repetitive movements: Overuse from sports or activities like swimming or tennis
- Poor blood flow to tendons, leading to tissue degeneration
- Metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes or thyroid conditions)
- Trauma or shoulder injury
Diagnosis of Calcific Tendonitis
At DRHC Dubai, our orthopedic team uses advanced diagnostic tools to accurately detect calcific tendonitis.
- Physical Examination: Assessment of shoulder movement, pain, and tenderness.
- X-rays: To visualize calcium deposits within the tendon.
- Ultrasound: Provides detailed images of soft tissue structures and confirms the size and location of deposits.
- MRI: May be used to evaluate the extent of tendon damage or other associated shoulder injuries.
Treatment Options for Calcific Tendonitis
Treatment for calcific tendonitis depends on the severity of symptoms and the size of the deposits. At DRHC Dubai, we offer both non-surgical and surgical treatments for effective relief.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid activities that strain the shoulder to reduce pain.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs helps control inflammation and swelling.
- Pain Medications: NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises improve mobility and restore function.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting steroids into the shoulder reduces severe inflammation and pain.
- Shockwave Therapy: High-energy sound waves break down calcium deposits and promote healing.
Minimally Invasive procedures
- Ultrasound-Guided Needle Aspiration (Barbotage)
- A needle is used to break up and remove the calcium deposits.
- The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with ultrasound guidance.
- Patients often experience immediate pain relief after the procedure.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
- PRP injections promote natural healing by delivering growth factors directly to the tendon.
- This regenerative treatment is particularly useful for chronic cases of calcific tendonitis.
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical methods fail to relieve symptoms, surgery may be necessary.
- Arthroscopic Removal of Calcium Deposits
- A minimally invasive surgery where small instruments are used to remove the deposits through tiny incisions.
- The procedure ensures minimal tissue damage and faster recovery.
- Often combined with rotator cuff repair if tendon damage is present.
- Open Surgery
- Reserved for severe cases with extensive tendon damage.
- Involves removal of deposits and repair of the affected tendon.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
- Post-Treatment Care: Most patients recover with a few weeks of rest and physical therapy after non-surgical procedures.
- Rehabilitation Program: Our tailored physiotherapy programs focus on improving range of motion and rebuilding shoulder strength.
- Return to Activity: Patients can usually return to daily activities within 6-8 weeks, though full recovery from surgery may take 3-6 months.
Why Choose DRHC Dubai for Calcific Tendonitis Treatment?
At DRHC Dubai, our orthopedic specialists use the latest diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to ensure the best outcomes for patients with calcific tendonitis. Whether you need conservative care or surgical intervention, our multidisciplinary team provides personalized treatment plans to help you return to an active, pain-free lifestyle.
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Dubai Shoulder Clinic at DRHC has the best orthopedic surgeon in Dubai who provides shoulder arthroscopy, shoulder surgery, and treatment for shoulder pain, frozen shoulder, dislocated shoulder, shoulder impingement, and so on. To book your an appointment call at +97142798200 today!