Free and fluid movement at the shoulder joint depends on the smooth operation of a number of muscles, tendons and ligaments The rotator cuff is a cluster of four muscles and their respective tendons at the top of the humerus (arm bone) This area is prone to chronic degenerative changes and injuries. Calcific tendonitis refers to a build-up of calcium in the rotator cuff, and is often aggravated by an existing condition, such as Impingement or conventional tendonitis in the shoulder. When calcium builds up in the area,pain results from acute inflammation .Fluid movement of the joint is reduced. Calcium is deposited in the rotator cuff, between the humerus and acromion inhibiting the normal, friction-free movement of the joint. Impingement or tendonitis, which reduce the mobility of the joint leads to degenerative change and Calcium dposition
Detailed Description
Symptoms · Localized pain which can be severe resembling an acute infection · Local warmth · Tenderness around specific part of shoulder. Diagnosis An X ray of the
shoulder adjusted for soft tissue Aspiration may be necessary.
Risk Factors
· Athletes who perform frequent overhead motions, such as water polo and basketball players · Overuse of the shoulder by repeated throwing or overhead exercise Diabetics.
Treatment
Immediate Action: · Consult your doctor. · Take aspirin or an anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, if needed. · Ice the wound for 20 minutes, as heat tends to aggravate calcific tendonitis. · Avoid motions that cause sharp pain. · At your doctor’s advice, do low-impact exercises to increase range of motion
Procedures
The Orthopaedic surgeon may administer cortisone injections for relief of pain and swelling,after doing an aspiration and may also perform “needling,” breaking up the painful tissue inside the joint under local anesthetic. Calcium deposits are aspirated and then the area is lavaged with saline. Local anesthesia is infiltrated. Post opeteratively the patient has to participate in active physio therapy and consume NSAIDs. For some cases, surgery may be necessary. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery may be recommended by your shoulder specialist to assess the extent of the injury and remove calcium deposits. Other procedures to correct pre-existing conditions like rotator cuff tear or impingement may be undertaken simultaneously.
Medications
Possible medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Prevention Since overhead sports and occupational activities contribute to shoulder conditions such as impingement or bursitis, which may aggravate or worsen calcific tendonitis, such activities should be avoided. Gradually working up toward higher degrees of activity or higher weight while weightlifting will give your shoulder time to adapt, and therefore, prevent injury. |
